posted 01-24-2011 10:02 AM               

In Spirit of Ronald E. McNair - Astronaut is an intensely moving story about one of the world's first African-American space shuttle astronauts. Born and reared in a small town in South Carolina, he did not let his humble beginnings or the color of his skin stand between him and his goal of becoming an astronaut.

After graduating Magna Cum Laude from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, McNair went on to earn a Ph.D. in laser physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In 1978, he was one of 35 astronaut candidates selected from a pool of 11,000 applicants to become a member of NASA's elite space shuttle program. In February 1984, he first orbited the Earth aboard the space shuttle, Challenger. In 1986, Dr. McNair perished along with six fellow crewmembers aboard the ill-fated shuttle, Challenger.

Ron McNair is an American hero whose story serves as a model for people from all walks of life. His story is one that must be passed on from generation to generation.

• McNair Achievement Programs, 2005
  
• 244 pages
  
• ISBN 0-942683-28-8

posted 01-24-2011 10:07 AM               

Please join Carl McNair (brother of astronaut Ronald McNair), members of the Downey City Council, city staff, friends, and neighbors in celebrating the lives and legacy of the heroes of Challenger’s final mission. Carl honors his brother in his book:

"In the Spirit of Ronald E. McNair, Astronaut – An American Hero"

(Book signing immediately following inspirational presentation)

Join us as Carl speaks about his brother, the crew, and the continuation of the mission of these true American heroes.

FREE ADMISSION
Tuesday, January 25, 2011 5:00 p.m.
Columbia Memorial Space Center
12400 Columbia Way (formerly Clark Avenue)
Downey, CA 90242

More Information: (562) 231-1200 or info@downeyspacecenter.org