TED Talks Daily

A NASA astronaut’s lessons on fear, confidence and preparing for spaceflight | Megan McArthur

Apr 14, 2021
Megan McArthur, a NASA astronaut known for her incredible journey preparing for spaceflight, shares insightful lessons on courage and readiness. She delves into the rigorous training that transforms fear into confidence. Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, she reveals how viewing Earth from space shifts one's perspective. The discussion also captures the emotional complexities faced by families during a launch, balancing excitement with anxiety. Through her experiences, McArthur inspires listeners to embrace challenges with preparation and bravery.
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ANECDOTE

Launch Day Emotions

  • Megan McArthur describes watching her husband, Bob, launch into space.
  • She experienced intense fear and joy, highlighting the emotional complexities of such events.
INSIGHT

Source of Fear

  • McArthur explains that her fear stems from helplessness, not the inherent danger.
  • Having control and the ability to impact the situation alleviates the fear.
ANECDOTE

Son's Reaction

  • McArthur's son initially resisted her spaceflight, limiting her to 30 days.
  • He later accepted it, viewing space travel as a normal family activity.
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