“M” is for McNair, Ronald Erwin (1950-1986). Astronaut. A native of Lake City, McNair earned a Ph.D. in physics from M.I.T. While at M.I.T. he specialized in quantum electronics and molecular spectroscopy, conducting significant work in the development of laser technology. In 1978 he was selected as an astronaut candidate and moved his family to Houston. The second African American in space, he made his first flight in February 1984 aboard the space shuttle Challenger. His assignments included operating a remote sensory camera and a new remote manipulator arm designed to remove damaged satellites in space. He monitored space gases, tested solar cells, and was the first person to play a saxophone in orbit. In January 1986—on another flight--the Challenger exploded shortly after launch, killing Ronald Erwin McNair and his fellow crew members.
“M” is for McNair, Ronald Erwin (1950-1986)
