Hollywood vs. Reality: Astronauts in Movies
Summary
In this article, we explore the differences between how Hollywood portrays astronauts in movies and the reality of being an astronaut. Retired astronaut Nicole Stott shares her experiences and insights on astronaut training, spacewalks, and potential dangers in space.
Table of Contents
- Space Suits and Spacewalks
- Potential Dangers in Space
- Spacecraft Maneuvers and Equipment
- Astronaut Training in Movies vs. Reality
Space Suits and Spacewalks
Stott explains that while space helmets and suits are durable, they can still be damaged. Astronauts take precautions to avoid scratches or tears, and spacewalks are choreographed down to five-minute increments. In reality, there is not as much chatter during spacewalks as depicted in movies. Jetpacks are only meant to be used in emergencies, and astronauts train for worst-case scenarios where they have to abort immediately.
Potential Dangers in Space
The speaker discusses potential dangers while in space, such as debris from missile strikes and the fear of spinning off during a spacewalk. They also mention the use of virtual reality simulators to train for emergency scenarios.
Spacecraft Maneuvers and Equipment
The speaker comments on the speed of the space shuttle and the lack of a gas pedal for acceleration, but mentions the use of a handle to increase thrust. They also discuss the use of a robotic arm on the ISS and space shuttle for moving equipment and even people during spacewalks. The writer mentions that while the arm of a spacecraft could physically grab another moving spacecraft, the speed and difference in movement would likely cause it to rip off. They also describe their experience of grabbing a Japanese cargo vehicle with the arm and how it felt like in comparison to the movie scenes. The speaker notes a scene in a film where a spacecraft moves at ludicrous speed, but points out that this is not realistic.
Astronaut Training in Movies vs. Reality
The text discusses various aspects of astronaut training and space-related scenes from movies. The writer talks about the multi-axis trainer, which was used to train astronauts to get into disorienting configurations that might happen in space. They mention that Neil Armstrong never used the trainer, but it represents what astronauts would go through during their training. The text also discusses the training montage from the movie Armageddon, where the US astronauts trained for a year in a weightless environmental training facility and underwater pool. The writer says that the underwater work looks just like what they would do if they were training for a spacewalk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hollywood often exaggerates or oversimplifies the reality of being an astronaut. While movies can be entertaining, it’s important to recognize the differences between Hollywood and reality. Astronauts undergo rigorous training and take precautions to ensure their safety in space.
