Becoming an Astronaut: Is it Your Destiny?

Summary

The article is a Q&A style blog post between Brent Ros and Dr. Kjell Lindgre, where they discuss the requirements for becoming an astronaut, the physical and medical tests involved, the equipment used in space exercises, and space exploration vehicles. Brent goes through several tests to prove his worth as an astronaut candidate, including driving the Space Exploration Vehicle, practicing emergency response protocols and trying out space food.

Requirements for Becoming an Astronaut:

Dr. Kjell Lindgre explained that candidates need to have a four-year bachelor’s degree in a math, science, or engineering discipline. Brent, with an MFA in acting, falls short in meeting the basic requirement, but Dr. Lindgre confirms that he’s on the right track.

Physical and Medical Tests for Astronaut Candidates:

Dr. Lindgre details the length and thoroughness of the physical exam that candidates undergo, which includes tests for joint injuries and drug screening. The astronaut physician is responsible for drug testing, while the flight medical clinic does a complete physical examination.

Exercise Equipment Used in Space:

Dr. Lindgre shows Brent the exercise equipment used in space, including the treadmill, the advanced resistive exercise device, and the cycle ergometer. He explains the challenges of working out in zero gravity and how they simulate gravity using straps for the treadmill exercise.

Space Exploration Vehicle: A Test Drive

Brent gets a chance to take the Space Exploration Vehicle for a test drive, where he learns how to drive the rover and maneuvers it through simulated lunar and Martian landscapes. He even gets to try some hydraulic moves and passes the driving test with flying colors.

Space Food: Tasting the Space Cuisine

Brent takes a culinary trip to the Space Food Systems Laboratory and tastes various space foods like canned beef stew, broccoli au gratin, chipotle snack bread, and concludes with the chocolate pudding cake. The food, though pre-packaged, seems to exceed Brent’s expectations, and he gives them a thumbs up.

Conclusion:

Becoming an astronaut requires both mental and physical preparation, but with the right education and training, it seems attainable. The article covers various aspects of an astronaut’s life and work, and Brent concludes that he could become an astronaut with the right education and training, but only after going to college for several years.