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Teen News: 2 Things
First off, I'm sorry I didn't make it to the robot party last Friday. I left work early so I could get a head start on my packing for a move the next morning, and what should happen when I get home to start? Our car broke down! So I spent most of my bonus time waiting for a towtruck to come (2 1/2 hours) and getting it to the shop etc. But enough of my yakkin'. I just wish I could've come and met all the fine folks...
Secondly, I just want to say that I love astronauts. I always wanted to be one and I've had a NASA fetish since I was a wee slip of a lad. Apart from the amazing aspect of space travel, I always remember as a child thinking that NASA guys were like a big assemblage of cool dads; sideburns and horm-rimmed sunglasses, pocket protectors and ties, buzzcuts etc. As an adult it's even more inspiring to see that group finally permeated by not only women, but people from every culture.
I can imagine nothing more amazing or awe-inspiring than being able to look down on your home planet and see it actual size, as you zip around at such a speed that entire days seem to pass with the hours. I'd like to think that one day I will do that, but somehow I doubt it.
When I first heard the bad news, I hoped it wasn't the first flight for any of the astronauts. Sadly, this was the case for 4 of the 7 onboard. Then I thought, unlike the crewmembers of Challenger who never made it that far, this bunch were at least able to accomplish their mission and experience the thrill of space travel for a shining moment.
I fear America's space program will only be headed further toilet-ward after this latest disaster. Never mind that it's the most complicated and dangerous form of travel. And never mind that in 50-60 years there have been only 3 deadly incidents (1 of those occuring on the ground). I fear most folks will assume that NASA is screwing up too much, and we will magically forget the number of flights that went without a hitch. Space travel will be deemed unnecessary.
An email from my brother Jeff put it nicely...
"If there is one great thing this nation can be proud of without reservation, it is the space program. I am sure that in the coming weeks much will be made of the piece of insulation that separated with uncertain consequence at liftoff, and that perhaps NASA knew or suspected that damage could jeopardize the return of the shuttle. Even if knowing that was true, the ground and shuttle crew pressed on with the mission and performed flawlessly without hesitation. That is the admirable thing.
During the latest winter storm in Charlotte, a paramedic tending to injured passengers in a two car collision lost both legs when a truck slid on the ice covered bridge and slammed into the wreck where he was working.
In a world where war drums pound and the airwaves are filled with vicious innuendo, our hope lies in those individuals who rise above it all and do great things at great peril."
Indeed.
