NASA's Response to 9/11: A Tribute from Space

On September 11, 2001, as the world watched in horror at the tragic events in the United States, NASA provided a unique perspective from space and offered support in various ways. Here are some key moments of NASA's involvement:

Observing from Orbit
On that fateful day, Expedition 3 Commander Frank Culbertson, the sole American aboard the International Space Station, captured images of the smoke billowing over New York City from orbit. His photographs provided a haunting view of the devastation from above.

A Unique Perspective
Culbertson described the experience as surreal, noting the shock of witnessing "smoke pouring from wounds" in his own country while orbiting in a spacecraft dedicated to improving life on Earth.

Public Reflection
The day after the attacks, Culbertson publicly shared his reflections on the profound impact of seeing the destruction from space, describing it as "jolting to the psyche."

Honoring Victims
In tribute to the victims, NASA flew nearly 6,000 U.S. flags aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour during mission STS-108. These flags were later presented to the victims' families as a mark of respect.

Supporting Recovery Efforts
Following 9/11, NASA collaborated with FEMA, utilizing aerial sensors and satellite technology to monitor air quality and contaminants in the affected areas.

Involving Students
Students at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston contributed to assembling commemorative packages, including the flags flown in space, creating a personal link between NASA and the victims' families.

Special Ceremony
On June 14, 2002, National Flag Day, the commemorative flags were distributed to the victims' families in a ceremony at the American Museum of Natural History’s Rose Center for Earth and Space in New York, symbolizing national resilience and remembrance.