11 Comments
User's avatar
Joseph L. Wiess's avatar

Nah. They were tourists, just like Bill Shatner was (God bless him, but he’s no astronaut.)

Don’t feel too bad, there were times when I thought the same about the crews of the shuttles. In the end, they became glorified space truckers. They got the job done, but it became routine. Launch a shuttle, carry out a mission, put a payload in orbit, land, refuel the rockets, attach the boosters, launch another one. I watched every NASA Mission, but even they treated it like it was just a job.

Expand full comment
Patrick Abbott's avatar

I do agree that space has become routine, and that's awesome. I want more space activity! And, yes, God bless William Shatner.

Expand full comment
Mkwawa shujaa's avatar

I certainly agree they are astronauts. If given the opportunity, would you go on a sub orbital flight or the ISS?

Expand full comment
Patrick Abbott's avatar

In a heartbeat I would say "Yes!" How about yourself?

Expand full comment
Mkwawa shujaa's avatar

I have barely been on commercial flights and so a out of earth flight would be super new to me.

I would have to ask for some training of body and mind first NGL

Expand full comment
Patrick Abbott's avatar

Probably a good thing for me to ask for, too. Ha!

Expand full comment
Mkwawa shujaa's avatar

Haha yes.

Expand full comment
Michael P. Marpaung's avatar

They're as much astronauts as I am a sailor for taking the ferry from Java to Bali.

Expand full comment
Patrick Abbott's avatar

I'm thrilled because this whole debate just goes to show how much easier it is to go into space now.

Expand full comment
Michael P. Marpaung's avatar

True, lol. I just wish this is done without the whole feminist business. But I guess it does draw in attention even if it's for all the wrong reason.

Expand full comment
Patrick Abbott's avatar

Blue Origin is desperate. SpaceX isn't just beating them, it's in a different league. All BO can do right now is publicity stunts like Shatner. But, I hope this inspires others and reminds SpaceX that it always needs to be innovating. No one wants BO to eventually catch up to them. Let the Space Race 2.0 continue! (We'll enjoy the popcorn as the others scramble).

Expand full comment