The Familiar Scent of Space
It wasn’t just the sights of the cosmos that struck NASA astronaut Stephen Bowen when he first entered the International Space Station (ISS); it was the smell. This scent, a mix of various elements, reminded him strongly of his time in submarines during his Navy career. Bowen, a 1986 graduate of the Naval Academy, had a unique journey from navigating deep seas to exploring space.
The Unseen Similarities: Submarines and Space Stations
In 2000, Bowen became the first submarine officer ever selected as a NASA astronaut. He quickly noticed the similarities between the technologies and environments of space stations and submarines. This connection became apparent during his three delivery missions to the ISS between 2008 and 2011. From the oxygen generators to the operational pace, Bowen’s experience in submarines provided a unique perspective on space living.
Adapting to Life in Orbit: The Challenges and Joys
During his tenure aboard the ISS, particularly his latest mission in 2023 as part of NASA’s sixth commercial crew rotation, Bowen experienced the day-to-day life in space. The operational tempo, daily routines, and the occasional high-stakes activities like extravehicular activities (EVAs) resonated with his submarine experiences. But beyond the routine, Bowen was part of numerous scientific experiments, contributing significantly to our understanding of life in microgravity.
The Science of Space: From Robotics to Heart Cells
Among the hundreds of experiments, Bowen highlighted some that left a lasting impression. The team conducted a student robotics challenge and launched a satellite testing a new radiation protection system. Notably, the Cardinal Heart 2.0 experiment used an artificial beating heart to study the impact of microgravity on heart cells. Observations like these, valuable both in space and on Earth, made his time on the ISS both challenging and rewarding.
Closing Thoughts: The Ocean of Stars Above and Below
Bowen’s journey from the depths of the oceans to the vastness of space highlights the interconnectedness of extreme environments. His experiences underscore the diverse skills and perspectives needed in the realm of space exploration, making his story not just unique but also inspirational for future generations looking to the stars.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Defence.
