United States:
Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster: The Space Shuttle Challenger exploded shortly after liftoff from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, killing all seven crew members on board. The tragedy shocked the nation and led to a temporary suspension of the space shuttle program.
World:
India-Pakistan Relations: Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Pakistan's President Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq signed an accord in New Delhi, formally agreeing to a "No War Pact." The agreement aimed to improve bilateral relations and reduce the risk of conflict between the two countries.
Soviet Union:
Death of Konstantin Chernenko: Konstantin Chernenko, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU), passed away at the age of 73 after a prolonged illness. His death led to a power struggle within the party's leadership, which ultimately resulted in the selection of Mikhail Gorbachev as the new General Secretary.
Technology:
Commodore Amiga: Commodore International released the Amiga 1000 personal computer in North America. It was one of the first computers to feature advanced multimedia capabilities, including high-resolution graphics, 4-channel audio, and animated sprites.
Australia:
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Tragedy: A storm during the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race caused several boats to sink or capsize, resulting in the deaths of 21 sailors and the rescue of 55 others. It remains one of the deadliest incidents in the race's history.
Indonesia:
Eruption of Mount Galunggung: Mount Galunggung, a volcano located in West Java, Indonesia, erupted, sending ash clouds and pyroclastic flows into nearby villages. The eruption displaced around 30,000 people and caused extensive damage to the region.
Arts and Entertainment:
Super Bowl XX: The Chicago Bears defeated the New England Patriots 46–10 in Super Bowl XX, held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The game is remembered for the Bears' dominant defense, which intercepted Patriots' quarterback Tony Eason four times.
Music:
Prince's "Kiss" Released: American musician Prince released his song "Kiss" as a single from his album "Parade." The song became a commercial success, reaching number one on several music charts worldwide and establishing Prince as a global pop icon.
These are some of the notable events that occurred on January 5, 1986.