Most of us on SimHQ probably watched the launch and subsequent explosion live on television when it happened, and it was one of the saddest, most shocking moments that we'll remember.
I did. Live as a kid.
Just got home from working night shift and was going to bed. My Mother ran a day care at the time and it was not easy. Just fell asleep and she hollers down, Turn on your TV. The shuttle just blew up. Did not sleep for 3 days.