Museum honoring NC astronaut opens in Beaufort

BEAUFORT, N.C. — Residents of the North Carolina town of Beaufort marked the anniversary of the explosion of the space shuttle Challenger with the opening of a small museum dedicated to
the local astronaut who died on that flight.

The Daily News of Jacksonville reported a grand opening was held Thursday for the Michael J. Smith Air and Space Mini-Museum at Beaufort Elementary School. Thursday marked the anniversary of the Challenger explosion on Jan. 28, 1986.

The tribute includes a wall cabinet showcasing photographs of Smith, his flight medals, a pilot’s helmet and memorabilia of his career donated by his family and friends.

Smith learned to fly at the local airport that bears his name, and a memorial also stands on the Beaufort waterfront.

Information from: The Daily News

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