Science Weekly What does it take to become an astronaut?
Nov 19, 2024
Hannah Devlin, a Guardian science correspondent and zero-gravity flight enthusiast, shares her thrilling experiences and insights into becoming an astronaut. She reveals the intense selection process, where only a few are chosen from over 20,000 applicants, featuring the inspiring journey of ESA’s Rosemary Coogan. The discussion highlights the physical and emotional challenges of space missions, essential traits like teamwork, and the rigorous training astronauts undergo. Devlin also touches on the importance of responsible exploration of resources beyond Earth.
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Zero-G Experience
- Hannah Devlin joined ESA astronauts on a zero-G flight, experiencing weightlessness.
- She described the feeling of floating as surreal, with no up or down.
Physiological Effects of Zero-G
- In zero-G, the brain struggles to process floating, initially perceiving the ceiling as moving.
- Astronauts can even forget they have a body after prolonged weightlessness.
Astronaut Selection
- Rosemary Coogan, a British astronaut, was selected from over 20,000 ESA applicants.
- The rigorous selection process involves academic tests, psychological assessments, and teamwork evaluations.
