What was the name of the space shuttle that carried the first African-American astronaut into space?

• A. Discovery
• B. Endeavour
• C. Challenger
• D. Atlantis

Answer: (C)

The first African-American astronaut to travel into space was Guion S. Bluford Jr., who flew aboard the Challenger space shuttle on August 30, 1983. This historic mission marked a significant moment in both space exploration and African-American history, as it broke barriers in a field where representation had been minimal.

The Challenger was notable not only for carrying Bluford but also for its collective achievements in NASA’s Space Shuttle program. The shuttle's missions involved various scientific experiments and advancements in technology, showcasing the contributions of diverse astronauts to space exploration. Bluford's journey inspired many and highlighted the importance of inclusion and representation in science and technology careers.