Your Kids Asked the Artemis Astronauts Questions. They Answered.
6Digest
This podcast features Artemis II astronauts answering questions submitted by children, covering a wide range of topics from the practicalities of daily life in space, such as eating and using the bathroom, to the profound emotional and philosophical aspects of their mission. The astronauts share insights into the essential qualities needed for space travel, describe the awe-inspiring experience of seeing the far side of the moon and Earth from orbit, and discuss the benefits of space exploration in the face of earthly challenges. They also touch upon the difficulties of consuming carbonated drinks in microgravity, the nature of sleep and dreams in space, and the enduring impact of their journey on their perspective of life and humanity's place in the universe.
Outlines
Astronauts Answer Kids' Space Questions
The podcast begins by addressing the current bewildering times and transitions to listener questions for the Artemis II astronauts. Children's curiosity spans daily life, emotions, and aspirations in space, leading astronauts to share essential qualities like curiosity and teamwork. They describe the profound experience of the moon's far side and the fragility of Earth, while defending space exploration's benefits against earthly concerns.
Daily Life, Food, and Challenges in Space
Practical aspects of space living are explored, including hygiene, sleeping, and food, with humorous anecdotes about zero gravity dining. The astronauts explain the challenges of consuming carbonated drinks due to microgravity's effect on bubbles and discuss the concept of orientation and dreams in space. They also address feelings of loneliness and a newfound appreciation for Earth's preciousness.
Bathroom Tech, Alien Life, and Earth's Beauty
The most frequent children's questions concern bathroom use in space, with explanations of specialized toilets. The possibility of extraterrestrial life is discussed, acknowledging the vast universe but lack of evidence. The astronauts identify Earth as the most beautiful sight and recount a touching tribute involving a lunar crater named after a late wife.
Mission Impact and Earthly Perspective
Astronauts reflect on retaining the significance of their mission through gratitude and sharing, emphasizing its unifying power. Seeing Earth from afar profoundly changed their perspective, highlighting the importance of joy, mutual support, and the precious, unlikely nature of life on our planet. The episode concludes with a message to appreciate nature and a brief news update.
Keywords
Artemis II Mission
The Artemis II mission was a crewed spaceflight test mission of NASA's Orion spacecraft, intended to be the first crewed flight of the Space Launch System rocket and the first crewed mission to the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972. It aimed to test Orion's systems with astronauts aboard in lunar orbit.
Far Side of the Moon
The far side of the Moon is the hemisphere that always faces away from Earth. It is not permanently dark but is illuminated by the Sun as the Moon rotates. Humans had not directly observed this side until the Artemis II mission.
Space Exploration Benefits
Space exploration drives technological innovation, leading to advancements in materials science, medicine, computing, and more, which often have significant benefits for life on Earth, justifying the investment despite high costs.
Microgravity Effects
Microgravity, the condition of near weightlessness, affects various aspects of life in space, including fluid dynamics (like carbonated drinks), bodily functions (like using the bathroom), and even sleep and dreams.
Earth Observation from Space
Viewing Earth from space provides a unique perspective on its fragility, beauty, and interconnectedness. This "overview effect" often fosters a sense of global unity and a deeper appreciation for our planet's life-sustaining atmosphere.
Astronaut Training and Qualities
Becoming an astronaut requires specific qualities such as curiosity, persistence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for nature. Rigorous training prepares them for the challenges and unique experiences of spaceflight.
Space Toilet Technology
Toilets in space utilize suction and airflow to manage waste in microgravity, as gravity cannot be relied upon. This technology is crucial for crewed missions and involves specialized hoses and collection systems.
Search for Extraterrestrial Life
The search for extraterrestrial life, or astrobiology, is a scientific endeavor driven by the vastness of the universe. While no evidence of alien life has been found, the possibility remains a compelling reason for continued exploration.
Q&A
What are the essential qualities for becoming an astronaut?
Astronauts need curiosity, a sense of wonder about nature, persistence to overcome challenges, and strong teamwork skills. Cultivating these traits from a young age is crucial for aspiring astronauts.
What was it like to see the far side of the moon?
It was an overwhelming and solemn experience. The astronauts witnessed landscapes never before seen by human eyes, realizing the vastness of space and the unique beauty of the unobserved lunar terrain.
Why is space exploration important if we have problems on Earth?
Space exploration drives innovation and technological advancements that benefit Earth. It unites brilliant minds towards common goals, leading to solutions that might not otherwise be discovered.
How do astronauts use the bathroom in space?
Space toilets use suction and airflow to direct waste, as gravity is absent. Urine is collected and vented, while solid waste is processed. Backup systems are in place for emergencies.
What is the most beautiful thing astronauts see in space?
The Earth is consistently cited as the most beautiful sight. Its vibrant colors, swirling patterns, and apparent "aliveness" create a profound and attention-grabbing spectacle.
Did seeing Earth from space change your perspective on life?
Yes, it profoundly reinforced the preciousness and unlikely nature of life on Earth. It highlighted the need for unity, mutual care, and appreciating the planet's delicate atmosphere.
Is there alien life in the universe?
While the universe is vast with countless galaxies, no evidence of alien life has been found. The immense distances involved make detection extremely challenging, but the possibility remains a driver for exploration.
What are the challenges of drinking soda in space?
Carbonation in space doesn't rise to the top as it does on Earth. This makes opening a soda bottle difficult and prone to spraying, leading most astronauts to crave it upon return rather than consume it in space.
Show Notes
Last month, the astronauts of NASA’s Artemis II mission splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, bringing their journey around the moon to a close.
“The Daily” asked children to send in questions for the crew. The astronauts — three Americans and one Canadian — sat down with Rachel Abrams to answer them.
Guest: The Artemis II astronauts: Victor Glover, Jeremy Hansen, Christina Koch and Reid Wiseman.
Background reading:
- The mission took the astronauts farther than any human has ever traveled in history and reminded us how small we are.
- The Artemis II splashdown gave NASA momentum in a renewed moon race.
Photo: The New York Times
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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