I heard this e-mail read on the radio yesterday.
It was written by one of the Astronauts. Her name was
Laurel Clark. Her nice descriptions gave me a good feeling.
I did a Google search and found it here:
timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Here is the text:
"Hello from above our magnificent planet Earth. The
perspective is truly awe-inspiring. This is a terrific
mission and we are very busy doing science round the clock.
Just getting a moment to type e-mail is precious so this
will be short, and distributed to many who I know and love.
I have seen some incredible sights: lightning spreading
over the Pacific, the Aurora Australis lighting up the
entire visible horizon with the cityglow of Australia
below, the crescent moon setting over the limb of the
Earth, the vast plains of Africa and the dunes on Cape
Horn, rivers breaking through tall mountain passes, the
scars of humanity, the continuous line of life extending
from North America, through Central America and into South
America, a crescent moon setting over the limb of our blue
planet. Mount Fuji looks life a small bump from up here,
but it does stand out as a very distinct landmark.
Magically, the very first day we flew over Lake Michigan
and I saw Wind Point (Wisconsin) clearly. Haven't been so
lucky since. Every orbit we go over a slightly different
part of the Earth. Of course, much of the time I'm working
back in Spacehab and don't see any of it. Whenever I do get
to look out, it is glorious. Even the stars have a special
brightness.
I have seen my 'friend' Orion several times. Taking photos
of the earth is a real challenge, but a steep learning
curve. I think I have finally gotten some beautiful shots
the last 2 days. Keeping my fingers crossed that they're in
sharp focus.
My near vision has gotten a little worse up here so you may
have seen pics/video of me wearing glasses. I feel blessed
to be here representing our country and carrying out the
research of scientists around the world. All of the
experiments have accomplished most of their goals despite
the inevitable hiccups that occur when such a complicated
undertaking is undertaken. Some experiments have even done
extra science. A few are finished and one is just getting
started today.
The food is great and I am feeling very comfortable in this
new, totally different environment. It still takes a while
to eat as gravity doesn't help pull food down your
oesophagus. It is also a constant challenge to stay
adequately hydrated. Since our body fluids are shifted
toward our heads our sense of thirst is almost non-existent.
Thanks to many of you who have supported me and my
adventures throughout the years. This was definitely one to
beat all. I hope you could feel the positive energy that
beamed to the whole planet as we glided over our shared
planet.
Love to all, Laurel."
===
I like the way she wrote.
She seemed enlightened.
-Clappy |
