I'm not sure this phenomenon is uniquely American, I'm a Canadian and I think I felt pretty much the same way. I'm not sure about equating to people's feelings about religious martyrs, but perhaps you are overstating to make a point.

These people weren't garbage collectors, or bail bondsmen, or bus drivers. They were doing something that had the potential to further our knowledge of space and science in general. Some people aspired to be like them, most can at least admire the work they do and realize it's to the benefit of all. There is something altruistic about the type of work they do, because it doesn't seem to be motivated entirely by self interest.

Their death did not make them heroes. They were already heroes when they accepted that risk in order to do the work they do. The many men and women who returned safely from space are also heroes, minus the tragedy of death to remind us how valuable they are.

I would love to see somebody remake Ultima Underworld.. actually *finish* remaking it.

"...like looking into a deep, rich, and bottomless abyss of blackness." How much more black could that be? None... none more black.