You might be wondering, "What episode does Deb die?" Well, if you're thinking about a specific character in a fictional show, this isn't the place. But if you're curious about the real-life journeys of those aspiring to reach the stars, then you've landed in the right spot.
Recently, NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston dropped episode 325 of their podcast, aptly titled "Astronaut Graduation 2024." This episode dives deep into the world of human spaceflight, and more specifically, it celebrates the graduation of the 2021 class of astronaut candidates, affectionately nicknamed "The Flies." After two years of incredibly rigorous training, these individuals are now ready to take on the challenges of missions from Earth orbit to the Moon and Mars.
Leah Cheshier, one of the podcast hosts, had the chance to sit down with each of "The Flies" before their big day. It's fascinating to hear firsthand about the dedication and sheer grit it takes to become a NASA astronaut. We're talking about practicing spacewalks in the massive Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, mastering T-38 jets, getting intimately familiar with the International Space Station, and even learning Russian – a testament to the global nature of space exploration.
This episode features conversations with several of these aspiring astronauts, including Jessica Wittner and Andre Douglas. Jessica, a U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander and accomplished naval aviator and test pilot, brings a wealth of experience from flying F/A-18 fighter jets and graduating from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. Andre, hailing from Virginia, boasts an impressive academic background with multiple master's degrees and a doctorate in systems engineering. He's also been deeply involved in maritime robotics, planetary defense, and youth mentoring through FIRST robotics.
Listening to their stories, you get a real sense of the passion that drives them. Andre, for instance, recalls the moment he received the life-changing phone call back in 2021, during the height of COVID-19. Working from home, with his wife and one-year-old son nearby, the call from Reid Wiseman felt surreal. He describes the feeling as "very, very happy and warm," a moment that clearly marked the beginning of an extraordinary new chapter.
These aren't just abstract figures in spacesuits; they are individuals with rich backgrounds, families, and dreams. Their journey to becoming astronauts is a testament to human ambition, scientific pursuit, and the enduring allure of the cosmos. As they prepare for assignments to future missions, whether to the ISS or the lunar surface through the Artemis program, their graduation marks not an end, but a thrilling new beginning.
