What’s the most chaotic thing that’s ever happened to you in space?

Imagine transitioning from complete stillness to traveling at a staggering speed of 17,500 miles per hour in less than nine minutes – this is the exhilarating reality of a rocket launch. The chaos surrounding such a moment is nothing short of spectacular, with the raw power and physical forces at play creating a mind-numbing experience. Within the brief span it takes to sip a cup of tea, astronauts are propelled from a grounded position in Florida to a state of weightlessness in the vastness of space. It is truly one of the most amazing, chaotic, and spectacular experiences that humanity can claim.

As an astronaut, mastering an array of skills is crucial; have you ever found yourself in a situation where you wished you had more knowledge?

When aboard a spacecraft, challenges can arise in the form of electrical malfunctions, attitude control issues, propulsion failures, or computer glitches. One significant hurdle is the potential loss of communications with Earth during such crises. Thus, possessing a diverse skill set is paramount. Over my 21-year career as an astronaut, I spent a mere six months in space but dedicated over two decades to preparing myself to be unfazed by unexpected challenges during my missions.

A case in point is my training as an emergency medical technician. I immersed myself in the cadaver lab at Hermann Hospital in Houston, which is located near NASA, to deepen my understanding of the human body. I then worked in various hospital wards, assisting a surgeon during extensive abdominal surgeries on accident victims and providing immediate triage in the emergency department. These skills were essential, as they prepared me for any potential medical emergencies that could occur while in space. We take our preparation incredibly seriously, ensuring we are not mere tourists in the cosmos.

Having authored six books, which one or which author do you find yourself returning to most frequently?

The choice often hinges on the type of book I am currently writing. Having penned three nonfiction works alongside three thrillers, I tend to gravitate towards reading thrillers while crafting fiction to get my creative juices flowing. I have numerous favorite thriller authors, including Robert Ludlum, John D. MacDonald, and Jonathan Kellerman. Their works serve as a valuable study in how to evoke a strong emotional response from readers.

What about science fiction? Are there any particular authors or titles that stand out for you?

During my formative years, I was deeply influenced by the works of Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke. A memorable highlight of my career was spending an entire day with Arthur C. Clarke at the Kennedy Space Center, where I showed him the space shuttle and the launch site. This experience felt like a dream come true, as he had been one of my science fiction idols throughout my youth.

In 2015, I was honored when Ray Bradbury’s family invited me to write an introduction for the Folio Society’s re-release of The Martian Chronicles. I had read the book long ago, but revisiting it made me realize just how masterful of a writer Bradbury was. Written in the aftermath of World War II, right after the detonation of the first two atomic bombs, but before the very first space flight, The Martian Chronicles captures a unique historical moment filled with despair over human behavior juxtaposed against a glimmer of hope. It is a truly exquisite novel.

What are your thoughts on the possibility of intelligent life existing beyond Earth?

While we have yet to uncover conclusive evidence, we do know that every star possesses at least one planet. Thanks to advancements in telescope technology, we can now ascertain how many of these planets orbit at a distance conducive to supporting life as we understand it. Current estimates suggest that around 5% of these planets may have the conditions necessary to sustain life. Given the vast number of stars in the universe, this leads to a staggering estimate of potentially quintillions of planets capable of harboring life. Therefore, the odds support the notion that life should exist elsewhere. However, it’s essential to recognize that complex life forms are a product of time and chance, evolving from simpler organisms into self-aware beings.

In my opinion, life will likely be common in various forms, such as slime or microbial life. However, intelligent life is likely to be extraordinarily rare. This realization imparts a significant sense of responsibility on our part as we ponder our existence.

What’s your favorite space-themed movie?

One film that stands out to me is 2001: A Space Odyssey. Its intricate storytelling and stunning visuals make it a remarkable adaptation of Arthur C. Clarke’s vision, remaining thought-provoking almost 60 years after its release. Likewise, The Martian is incredibly well-done, both as a film and as a book by Andy Weir. I also admire Ron Howard’s work on Apollo 13, which feels almost like a documentary. His dedication to authenticity is evident, having spent time with astronauts and filming in a zero-gravity environment.

Could you share an interesting fact about space exploration?

The most accomplished astronaut in American history is Peggy Whitson, a remarkable woman who has flown in space multiple times. She holds the record for the longest cumulative time spent in space by any American, has commanded the International Space Station on two occasions, and has completed ten spacewalks. Her significant contributions to the field of space exploration are commendable, and she is not only an accomplished astronaut but also a great friend of mine.

Do you have any hidden talents or party tricks?

As a musician, I play the guitar and sing, and I have an incredible memory for lyrics. My party trick involves being able to perform around 500 songs at the drop of a hat, knowing all the words and chords from start to finish. It may seem silly, but being a human jukebox is a lot of fun, especially when people request songs. When performing in Australia, I find joy in playing a few of my favorites on stage.

What is the most challenging maintenance task in space?

Fixing the toilet onboard is undoubtedly one of the most unpleasant chores. Toilets can malfunction frequently, and performing such a task in a weightless environment only amplifies the discomfort. The systems we utilize involve harsh chemicals and filters designed to process waste, converting urine and sweat back into drinking water, resulting in the recycling of roughly 93-94% of our onboard water supply.

What is the most valuable lesson you've learned from a colleague?

During a stint in the space shuttle simulator with Commander Kent Vernon “Rommel” Rominger, a crew member named Scott pitched an exciting idea to address an issue we were facing. In his enthusiasm, he accidentally knocked over Rommel’s can of Coke, spilling it across his checklists. Surprisingly, Rommel didn’t react with frustration; instead, he calmly flipped the can upright without fussing over the mess. His response demonstrated the importance of encouraging innovative thinking. Rather than allowing fear of mistakes to stifle creativity, he focused on fostering a positive environment for new ideas, which serves as an excellent lesson in leadership.

And finally, what song would you like played at your funeral?

“Danny Boy” holds a special place in my heart. It beautifully alters the perspective on death, addressing the complexities of grief and the anticipation of loss. The hauntingly beautiful melody and lyrics make it a poignant choice for such a reflective moment.