David Plotz talks with author Adam Higginbotham about his new book, <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Challenger/Adam-Higginbotham/9781982176617">Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space</a>. They discuss the feats of engineering that took place, the political cynicism and cost-cutting that played a role in the tragedy, the heroism and tragic loss of the people on board the shuttle, and more.    Tweet us your questions <a href="https://twitter.com/slategabfest?lang=en">@SlateGabfest</a> or email us at <a href="mailto:gabfest@slate.com">gabfest@slate.com</a>. (Messages could be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Cheyna Roth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a>

Slate History

Gabfest Reads | The Day the Challenger Fell From the Sky

A feed with the best history coverage from Slate’s wide range of podcasts. From narrative shows like Slow Burn, One Year, and Decoder Ring, to timely analysis from ICYMI and What Next, you’ll get the fascinating stories and vital context you need to understand where we came from and where we're going. 