NASA

This week we will be talking with Carl McNair, brother of the late Dr. Ronald McNair, NASA astronaut and Lake City, South Carolina, native. Ron McNair’s story is told in the four-part series, Once Upon a Time in Space, currently streaming on PBS and ETV Passport.Ron McNair’s story is singular: he grew up in a segregated South Carolina and went on to earn a PHD in physics. With the beginning of space shuttle program, NASA chose 35 applicants from a pool of over 10,000 astronaut candidates. In 1984 he became the second African American in space. Though he lost his life in the Challenger disaster in 1986, his story continues to inspire generations of young South Carolinians who want to reach for the stars.

He will command a four-person crew headed to space

“B” is for Bolden, Charles Frank, Jr. (1946-2017). Soldier, astronaut.

“B” is for Bolden, Charles Frank, Jr. (1946-2017). Soldier, astronaut.

“B” is for Bolden, Charles Frank, Jr. (1946-2017). Soldier, astronaut.

“B” is for Bolden, Charles Frank, Jr. (1946-2017). Soldier, astronaut.

OceanGate co-founder Stockton Rush said the carbon fiber hull used in an experimental submersible that imploded was developed with help of NASA and aerospace manufacturers, but a NASA official said Thursday that the agency had little involvement and a Boeing official said some recommendations were ignored.

“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.

“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.

The agreement allows Clemson faculty and NASA employees at the Johnson Space Center in Texas to work together identify and pursue mutual research that fosters innovation in aerospace engineering and other fields.