The establishment of the Columbia Medal was initiated in 1982 by the
Aerospace Division
(ASD) of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) to commemorate the first earth orbital flight of the United States Space-Shuttle Orbiter, Columbia, which opened a new technological era for mankind through the peaceful utilization of space. The medal also honors the astronauts who perished in the tragic demise of the Columbia on February 1, 2003. The Columbia Medal is an endowed award and is presented in accordance with the following criteria and rules: