Volunteer Feature | Stewart F. McAdoo and the First Shuttle Launch
A legacy of flight fueled by curiosity
April 12 marks the anniversary of STS-1, the first flight of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1981. Among those behind the scenes of that historic mission was Stewart McAdoo, who served in NASA’s Mission Planning and Analysis Division (MPAD). Today, he continues to share his knowledge and passion as a volunteer at Space Center Houston.
We asked McAdoo questions about his role in STS-1 and how he continues to champion curiosity through his work with guests.
On April 12, 1981, the day of the STS-1 launch, you stood at the threshold of a new chapter in human spaceflight. As someone who helped bring space and people closer together that day, what do you remember most vividly from the experience?
McAdoo: It was, for us who worked on the design and expected operation of the shuttle, a feeling of exhilaration that our planning work was going to be a success.
STS-1 was more than a launch—it marked the debut of a reusable space vehicle and the beginning of a vision for long-term human spaceflight. What did it mean to you to be part of a moment that revealed how science and humanity together can power exploration beyond Earth?
McAdoo: I worked in MPAD. It was a changeover for all of us, from contributing to the design and planning for how to operate to actually operating the vehicle. I worked on various configurations and operations, especially rendezvous and proximity operations with other vehicles.
You worked alongside a dedicated team of engineers, mission planners and support crew to overcome enormous challenges. What made that crew so unique—and how did your experience reflect the value of being people-driven in a time of such incredible innovation?
McAdoo: You make it sound so very special. For those of us in MPAD, it was gratifying that we finally had a vehicle, and now we had to work on how to use it. Remember, most of us were involved in a much more challenging project, Apollo.
Space Shuttle Columbia’s launch represented decades of curiosity, perseverance and bold thinking. As a champion of this kind of progress, what moments stand out to you as proof that asking “what if” can lead to something truly extraordinary?
McAdoo: We in MPAD, especially the Advanced Mission Design Branch, were happy to see the vehicle we helped configure actually get to flying. Then, we had to work out how to use it.
As someone who witnessed and contributed to a turning point in space history, what message would you share with today’s explorers—those inspired by the past and looking to a future shaped by wonder, ingenuity and purpose?
McAdoo: I think the message is never to think something can’t be done. We worked through several configurations, adjusting the design mostly to fit budget limitations.
Today, as a volunteer at Space Center Houston, you continue to inspire others with your story and presence. What motivates you to stay involved, and how do you see your role in championing curiosity for new generations of space enthusiasts?
McAdoo: I volunteer to share my experiences with the space program, particularly Apollo, with those who wonder how Saturn V and Apollo worked. Most people I speak with at Rocket Park weren’t alive when Apollo flew. I also answer questions about the shuttle near the cockpit of the mockup atop the 747 to help visitors understand how it worked. There’s a huge lack of understanding about manned spaceflight; I want to do my part to correct that.
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