ADVANCE PRAISE FOR SPACEWALKER
“Spacewalker is the book for anyone who ever dreamed of flying in space.” –Neil ArmStroNg, Commander of Apollo 11 “this is the story of one man’s lifelong quest to explore the unknown, overcome setbacks and obstacles, and keep the beacon of space shining in the hearts of all people, young and old. this book is about an American Dream.” –eugeNe CerNAN, NASA gemini and Apollo astronaut “this book is the story of a common man from the midwest who became an American hero . . . a model for the youth of our nation and for those who will accept the challenge to follow in his footsteps.” –geNe KrANz, NASA Flight Director for gemini and Apollo, including Apollo 11 and 13
From the age of ten, looking up at the stars, Jerry ross knew that he wanted to journey into space. this autobiography tells the story of how he came not only to achieve that goal, but to become the most-launched astronaut in history, as well as a NASA veteran whose career spanned the entire uS Space Shuttle program. From his childhood in rural indiana, through education at Purdue university, failing to qualify for Air Force pilot training because of “bad” eyesight, to an initial failure to be selected into the astronaut program. the majority of the book is an insider’s account of the uS Space Shuttle program, including the unforgettable experience of launch, the delights of weightless living, and the challenges of constructing the international Space Station. ross is a uniquely qualified narrator. During seven spaceflights, he spent 1,393 hours in space, including 58 hours and 18 minutes on nine space walks. life on the ground is also described, including the devastating experiences of the Challenger and Columbia disasters. For readers who have followed the space program from mercury through the international Space
Station and wonder what comes next, this book provides fascination; for young people interested in space exploration and reaching for their dreams, whatever they might be, this book provides inspiration. Full of stories of spaceflight that few humans have ever experienced, told with humor and honesty, Spacewalker presents a unique perspective on the hard work, determination, and faith necessary to travel beyond this world.
