(JUNEAU) - Members of the Alaska State Senate responded Saturday with grief and sympathy over the loss of the space shuttle Columbia and her seven member crew.

Early reports indicate that the shuttle Columbia was lost Saturday morning as it was re-entering the Earth's atmosphere for landing at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

"This is a terrible tragedy," said Senate President Gene Therriault (R-North Pole). "I am sure that the thoughts and prayers of all Alaskans are with the families and friends of the seven brave astronauts who selflessly gave their lives in pursuit of benefits to mankind."

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