Ex Astris Scientia  Astronaut & Cosmonaut Memorial  The
exploration of space is one of the greatest achievements of
mankind. It would not have been possible without "faith of the
heart", without the determination and dedication of the
scientists, engineers, technicians and other personnel involved
in the projects - and especially of the protagonists. Astronauts
and cosmonauts are heroes, not because they take unnecessary
risks, but because they allow their visions and dreams to come
true.  Going into space has not yet become routine. It bears
many risks, as a number of fatal accidents during the 43-year
history of manned space travel sadly demonstrate. Nothing could
compensate for the loss of these lives. But as long as the
responsible administrations learn from their mistakes and
negligences and make future missions safer, the disasters may at
least have a positive and lasting effect.  This page is
dedicated to the memory of the crews of Apollo 1, Soyuz 1, Soyuz
11, Challenger and Columbia.   The crew of Col