Exploring the Feels of Space: An Astronaut's Journey

A journey to space is a dream shared by many. However, it is a dream that few can truly understand unless they themselves have felt the weightlessness and unique experiences that come with being an astronaut. This article delves into the feelings and emotions associated with being in space, drawn from astronaut Michael Collins and various other literary sources. If you are searching for a glimpse of what it's like to be weightless in space, this piece will offer a window into that extraordinary experience.

What Does It Feel Like to Be in Space?

The absence of gravity is commonly known as weightlessness. As described by astronaut Edgar Mitchell, the feeling is akin to floating, similar to the sensation one gets when a roller coaster suddenly dives down. In the International Space Station, astronauts are in a constant state of free-fall, continuously and effortlessly floating about their workspace. This environment is exactly what led me, a mere observer, to wonder about the experience from the inside.

Astronauts often write about their experiences, and one of the most compelling sources of firsthand accounts is Michael Collins' book, Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut's Journey. While I have never personally experienced space, Michael Collins' book provides a rich and detailed description of his journey, which I highly recommend for anyone interested in understanding the astronaut's perspective.

Astronaut Sentiments and Experiences

Michael Collins: In his book, Michael Collins describes the elusive feeling of being asked 'What was it like up there?' so many times that he was ready to end it with a punch in the gut. His response underlines the complexity of conveying the sensation of space to those who have not experienced it. Collins emphasizes that the experience is more than just the physical sensation of weightlessness. It's about the mental and emotional changes that come with being so far from Earth.

The feeling of weightlessness is sometimes compared to the way a roller coaster suddenly goes down. However, the reality is much more profound. Astronauts describe a sense of freedom, as though they are free from the constraints of gravity that we are so familiar with on Earth. This freedom can be both exhilarating and disorienting, as the body and mind adjust to the absence of gravitational pull.

It was fanbloodytastic in 2020, writes Michael Collins, describing the 2020 as a time when there were hardly any crowds, minimal vehicle traffic, and very few aircraft in the sky. The world was quieter than usual, and the vastness of space over the Earth was more noticeable. The lack of daily chaos created a serene environment, one that allowed astronauts to more easily contemplate the vastness of the universe and the solitude of space.

Adapting to the Space Environment

Astronauts like Michael Collins must adapt to the space environment, which can cause some initial disorientation. While they might not feel the speed at which the Earth orbits, they do experience the freedom of floating and the significant changes in daily routines. This can be both exciting and daunting. The weightlessness can be unsettling initially, especially when one must learn to move around in a different way and acclimate to the new surroundings.

However, despite the challenges, the experience of being in space is overwhelmingly positive. It is a profound reminder of the vastness of our universe and the beauty that exists beyond Earth. The isolation can be challenging, but it also offers a unique perspective on our planet and its place in the cosmos.

Conclusion

The experience of being in space is a mixture of physical sensations and profound emotional and mental changes. While I, Shah (the writer), have never experienced it firsthand, Michael Collins' Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut's Journey offers a vivid and insightful portrayal of the astronaut's journey. For those curious about the sensations of weightlessness, this book is an essential read.

Additional Reading

If you are interested in learning more about the experiences of astronauts in space, I recommend the following books:

Carrying the Fire: An Astronaut's Journey by Michael Collins Astronaut:-flight surgeon to first woman on the moon by William A. Douglas Become astronaut: training for space by Michael Jost

These books offer a range of perspectives and detailed accounts of what it's like to be an astronaut, both physically and emotionally.