In time they flew, high up to space,
To bring new fame to human race.
Seven were they who knew no fear
In shuttle Columbia, all full of cheer.

Six and ten successful days,
Up in space, doing research
Oblivious of the cruel date
They were having with fate.

Alas! On their downward journey from space
Six and ten minutes, if only they could race!
For away they were snatched ‘tween time and space.
The cruel fate they had to face.

They, who had broken the laws of gravity,
Could not alas, break the laws of mortality,
Yet they gained eternity
For their endeavour towards humanity.

Salute to thee, Oh astronauts
For in your death that came in haste,
The space research has had a jolt.
Yet the mission will continue at a greater pace.

(Dedicated to the astronauts
who lost their lives in space shuttle Columbia)