PPE: Respirator Usage and Safety. A respirator is a personal protective device that is worn on the face. It covers the nose and mouth and is specifically designed to provide respiratory protection by forming a tight seal against the wearerâs skin. Respirators vary in their level of protection and efficiency to filter out airborne particles.
In 2003, Columbia disintegrated over Texas while returning from a 16-day trip to space. Later analysis found that a small bit of foam insulation that broke off an external fuel tank during launch had torn a hole in the orbiter's wing and led to the disaster. Gene Grush recounts the events from NASA's perspective.
Here's a look at the Space Shuttle Columbia. On February 1, 2003, the Columbia breaks up upon re-entry during mission STS-107, killing all seven crew members.It was the second loss of a shuttle in 113 shuttle flights.Facts: Space Shuttle Columbia, the first re-useable spacecraft, was the oldest in the shuttle fleet.It completed 27 missions; STS 107 was its 28th mission.pace Shuttle Columbia, the first re-useable spacecraft, was the oldest in the shuttle fleet. It completed 27 missions; STS 107 was its 28th mission.