Exclusive interview with lead spacewalker on Endeavour's final mission
2012-02-24
(Press-News.org) In an exclusive interview with Physics World, astronaut Drew Feustel gives a vivid account of his two missions into space and recalls his determination to make his childhood ambition – space flight – come true.
In the video, Feustel discusses his two missions – his maiden flight in 2009, as part of a team sent to repair the Hubble Space telescope, and his return to space in 2011 as the lead spacewalker on Endeavour's final mission to the International Space Station.
Recalling the first moments of launch, when you're sitting on the launch pad and the countdown hits zero, Feustel compares it to being "smacked in the back with a frying pan."
In response to the environmental issues we are currently experiencing on Earth, Feustel says: "Nowhere on the ground can you really see the atmosphere except that we see the blue sky. But when you're in space and you look down upon the planet, you can easily see that thin veil that separates us from the vacuum of space -- and you realise how fragile it is and how important it is for us to protect the planet."
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Please mention Physics World as the source of these items and, if publishing online, please include a hyperlink to: http://physicsworld.com
Notes for editors:
1. Physics World is the international monthly magazine published by the Institute of Physics. For further information or details of its editorial programme, please contact the editor, Dr Matin Durrani, on tel +44 (0)117 930 1002. The magazine's website physicsworld.com is updated regularly and contains physics news, views and resources. Visit http://physicsworld.com.
2. For copies of Physics World and copies of the articles reviewed here contact Michael Bishop, IOP Press Officer, tel +44 (0)117 930 1032, e-mail michael.bishop@iop.org.
3. The Institute of Physics is a leading scientific society promoting physics and bringing physicists together for the benefit of all.
It has a worldwide membership of around 40 000 comprising physicists from all sectors, as well as those with an interest in physics. It works to advance physics research, application and education; and engages with policymakers and the public to develop awareness and understanding of physics. Its publishing company, IOP Publishing, is a world leader in professional scientific communications. Go to http://www.iop.org
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[Press-News.org] Exclusive interview with lead spacewalker on Endeavour's final mission
