Overview

Rick Douglas Husband (July 12, 1957 – February 1, 2003) was an American pilot, U.S. Air Force officer and NASA astronaut. He served as Pilot on STS-96 and as Commander of STS-107, the Columbia research mission. The Columbia orbiter broke apart during reentry at the end of STS-107, killing Husband and the six other crewmembers.

Early life and military career

Husband grew up in Texas and pursued a career in military aviation and engineering. He attended military flight training and served in the U.S. Air Force, rising to the rank of colonel. His military experience included operational flying and test-pilot work, which later contributed to his selection as an astronaut candidate.

Spaceflights and responsibilities

Husband made two spaceflights. His first mission, STS-96, was a logistics and assembly flight to the International Space Station that prepared the station for future crews. As commander of STS-107, he led a dedicated science and research mission that spent several weeks on orbit performing experiments in microgravity.

Accident and investigation

During the launch of STS-107, Columbia sustained damage to its thermal protection system. On February 1, 2003, during atmospheric reentry, the damaged area allowed superheated gases to penetrate the wing structure. The orbiter broke apart and all seven crew members were lost. The event prompted an extensive investigation into technical causes and organizational factors; official reports and summaries are available from government and agency sources.

Legacy and recognition

Husband is remembered for his leadership, service and contributions to spaceflight. Communities and institutions have created memorials, scholarships and dedications in his honor. For example, his name has been attached to facilities and programs that commemorate the Columbia crew and support STEM education.

Missions and further reading

  • STS-96 — Pilot, logistics/assembly flight to the International Space Station.
  • STS-107 — Commander, dedicated microgravity research mission; ended in the loss of Columbia during reentry.

For official biographies and additional technical or historical material, see the USAF biography, the NASA astronaut profile, and reports on the accident and its aftermath at the Columbia accident investigation resources.