Michael John Smith

Born: 30 April 1945, Beaufort, North Carolina, United States

Nationality: American

Died: 28 January 1986 (Challenger explosion)

Smith, pilot on 51-L, was a captain in the United States Navy. He held a bachelor of science degree in naval science from the United States Naval Academy. He also had a masters degree in aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. He left behind a wife and three children.