AllMovie

The maiden flight of the first space shuttle was a much-anticipated event. In this program, the viewer will see the behind-the-scenes preparations and meet the personnel behind the launch. Hail Columbia! covers the pre-launch activities, the awe-inspiring and visually stimulating take-off, and the flight itself. The pilot of the Columbia, Robert Crippen, and astronaut John Young provide commentary, and the engineers, scientists, and other staff are seen as they ready the shuttle. Re-entry of the shuttle is anxiously awaited, and the successful landing is featured as well.