🔑 Key Takeaways
- With the right mindset and determination, we can overcome any obstacles and achieve our dreams, even if they seem out of reach.
- The Army is sending officers to NASA's astronaut candidate classes to enhance the experience base of their Space Operations officers and leverage unique skill sets for advancements in space exploration and military operations.
- Becoming an astronaut involves a rigorous selection process, with applicants facing multiple rounds of interviews, reference checks, and psychological tests before undergoing two years of intense training.
- Astronaut training involves learning Russian, land survival training, and fitness training, all of which require dedication, discipline, and the ability to adapt to demanding environments.
- Astronauts utilize specialized equipment, such as the ARED and T2 treadmill, to maintain their physical fitness in the unique zero-gravity environment of space.
- Regular exercise is vital for astronauts in space to combat the negative effects of zero gravity on their bodies, ensuring they remain fit and capable of fulfilling their responsibilities.
- Space walks are physically and mentally demanding, but the awe-inspiring views and the sense of accomplishment make them worth it despite the discomfort and lack of amenities.
- Open dialogue, clear expectations, and cooperation are crucial for successful long-term space missions and can foster unity among astronauts, despite political conflicts.
- Self-reflection, adaptability, and appreciating others are crucial for maintaining strong relationships in challenging situations, as seen in astronauts' experiences in space.
- Living in a space station requires adapting to unique challenges and confined spaces, while also providing privacy and comfort in sleeping quarters. Adjusting back to Earth after a mission takes time.
- Maintaining a balanced approach to post-space life is crucial. Prioritizing relationships, personal well-being, and following medical advice can help with the physical and psychological challenges of returning from space.
- Dedication to work, appreciation for nature, and the importance of sustainability are integral values shared by astronauts at NASA, who strive to make a positive impact on the world.
📝 Podcast Summary
Achieving the Impossible
Dreams can become a reality, even when they seem impossible. Mark Vande Hei shares that he didn't think becoming an astronaut was possible because he thought it was similar to wanting to be a superhero. However, through hard work, dedication, and the right opportunities, he achieved his dream of becoming an astronaut and spending a significant amount of time in outer space. This story teaches us that we should never underestimate ourselves or dismiss our dreams as unattainable. With the right mindset and determination, we can overcome any obstacles and achieve what may seem impossible. It reminds us to pursue our passions and never shy away from the opportunities that come our way, even if they seem out of reach.
Collaboration between the Army and NASA for Space Operations and Exploration
The Army has been actively collaborating with NASA to contribute to human space flight missions. While it may seem unconventional, the Army has been sending officers, particularly helicopter pilots, to NASA's astronaut candidate classes as a way to broaden the experience base of their Space Operations officers. This collaboration arose from a recognition by the Army that their officers possessed leadership qualities and skills that could greatly benefit space operations. Additionally, the Army has recognized the potential advantages of utilizing space assets in their operations, especially with the increasing digitization of the military. This partnership between the Army and NASA highlights the importance of cross-disciplinary cooperation and leveraging unique skill sets to further advancements in space exploration and military operations.
From Application to Training: The Journey of an Astronaut
Becoming an astronaut requires a thorough and competitive application process, as well as extensive training. To apply, individuals start by submitting their application through usajobs.gov, alongside thousands of other applicants. The application process takes more than six months, with each application reviewed and narrowed down to around 400 highly qualified candidates. Multiple rounds of interviews and reference checks further narrow down the selection to about 120 individuals. Psychological tests are also conducted to ensure a good fit for the position. Once selected, candidates undergo two years of training, including learning about spacewalks, space station systems, and operating spacecraft and robotic arms. The journey to becoming an astronaut is demanding and requires dedication and perseverance.
Challenges and Components of Astronaut Training
Training to become an astronaut involves multiple challenging components. One of these components is learning Russian, which is essential for the international space station program. However, maintaining fluency in the language is an ongoing struggle. The training also includes land survival training, where astronauts learn how to survive in the wilderness. Russian and EVA (extravehicular activity) training are considered the most difficult aspects of the training process. Both require physical and mental stamina, as well as the ability to adapt to demanding environments. As for fitness training, astronauts have the freedom to choose their own exercise routines, with some opting to follow workout plans provided by platforms like CrossFit. Overall, astronaut training is a rigorous and humbling experience that requires dedication, discipline, and a willingness to push the limits.
Exercise Equipment for Astronauts in Space
Astronauts have access to various resources for exercising in space, such as the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) for strength training and the T2 treadmill for cardiovascular fitness. The ARED works by using a lever arm and adjustable pivot point to create varying amounts of force, simulating weightlifting. On the other hand, the T2 treadmill utilizes a backpacking harness with chains and bungee cords to simulate running in zero-gravity. It is important for astronauts to maintain their physical fitness while in space, and these devices allow them to continue strength and cardiovascular training despite the unique challenges of the environment.
The Importance of Physical Activity in Space
Physical activity is crucial for astronauts in space to counteract the effects of zero gravity on the body. In zero-G, the skeletal structure and musculature of the body quickly weaken and atrophy. To prevent this, NASA schedules an hour and a half for resistive exercise and an hour for cardio exercise every single day. Some astronauts even go above and beyond, extending their workout time or waking up earlier to exercise more. The physical activity helps maintain the function of the body and ensures that the astronauts can effectively support the various scientific experiments and missions on the space station. Despite the long work day, exercise is prioritized to keep the astronauts healthy and physically capable in space.
The Challenges and Rewards of Space Walks
Space walks are awe-inspiring and intense experiences, requiring careful preparation and endurance. Mark Vande Hei describes the spiritual aspect of simply looking out the windows of the space station before the space walks begin. The moment of opening the hatch and seeing the bright, outdoor lighting reflecting off the Earth is a profound realization that the space walk is about to happen. Once outside, the vast distances and darkness are difficult to comprehend, but there is little time to dwell on it as there is a lot of work to be done during the six to eight-hour space walks. Despite the grueling nature of the experience, there are no bathroom breaks or food available during that time. When the space walk is finally over, astronauts like Vande Hei can feel exhausted and soaked in sweat and urine, highlighting the less glamorous aspects of life in space.
Importance of Communication and Cooperation in Space Missions
Mark Vande Hei, the American astronaut with the longest single space flight, emphasizes the importance of clear communication and expectations in his mission. He highlights that his bosss boss informed him from the beginning that the flight might last about a year, allowing him to discuss and prepare his family for this possibility. This shows the significance of open dialogue and transparency in managing such long-term missions. Additionally, Mark discusses the cooperation with Russian cosmonauts, indicating the strong camaraderie and friendship among the astronauts despite political conflicts. This serves as a reminder that shared goals can foster unity and collaboration, despite differing perspectives and sources of information.
The Importance of Communication and Empathy in Challenging Situations
Effective communication and empathy are vital in maintaining strong relationships, even in unique and challenging situations like being in space. Brett McKay realized the importance of listening to his wife's concerns and understanding her perspective, despite initially finding it ridiculous. Mark Vande Hei acknowledged that even astronauts can have their moments of irritability and making mistakes, but NASA selects individuals who are good at collaborating and living harmoniously in tight spaces. Additionally, Vande Hei learned to be more self-aware and challenge negative narratives he created for himself, leading to a more enjoyable experience in space. Both instances highlight the significance of self-reflection, adaptability, and appreciating the company of others, whether it is engaging in activities like watching movies or having group dinners.
Challenges and Comforts in Space Living
Living in a space station requires adjusting to unique challenges and confined spaces. Astronauts have to be mindful of their movements during activities like dancing, so as not to accidentally harm someone. The size of the space station is equivalent to a six-bedroom house, and it contains tunnels that resemble a Habitrail, with modules oriented in different directions. Sleeping quarters are small but sufficient, providing privacy and a sense of comfort. Upon returning to Earth, astronauts may feel physically unsteady and undergo tests to assess their capabilities for future extended space missions. Overall, the adjustment back to Earth takes time and is a gradual process.
Adjusting to life after space: physical challenges, psychological adjustments, and the importance of balance.
Adjusting to life after returning from space can come with physical and psychological challenges. Mark Vande Hei shares his experience of regaining his balance and orientation after landing, as well as dealing with light-headedness and physical limitations for weeks. Additionally, he discusses the importance of following medical advice and not rushing back into physical activities like running. On a psychological level, Vande Hei mentions that he didn't experience a let-down after returning because he had plans and priorities in mind, such as spending time with family and simplifying his life. He also emphasizes the sacrifices made by astronauts, including missing important family milestones. Ultimately, this conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to post-space life, focusing on relationships and personal well-being.
Commitment to NASA and a Passion for Sustainability
Both Brett McKay and Mark Vande Hei have a deep appreciation for their work at NASA and their unique experiences in space. They acknowledge the sacrifices they have made in their personal lives due to their dedication to their careers, such as missing important events. However, they remain committed to their work and are excited about future projects, including lunar flights and spacecraft tests. Furthermore, both astronauts express a profound sense of awe and responsibility towards the Earth and its fragile atmosphere. They understand the importance of sustainability and want to educate others about the impacts of human actions on the planet. Additionally, Mark Vande Hei highlights his enthusiasm for being outdoors and the desire to explore more outdoor activities after spending a significant amount of time indoors. Overall, this conversation emphasizes the value of dedication, appreciation for nature, and the desire to make a positive impact on the world.
