But when I wasn't working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.
Sally RideRead
So most astronauts getting ready to lift off are excited and very anxious and worried about that explosion - because if something goes wrong in the first seconds of launch, there's not very much you can do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Astronauts face significant anxiety and risk before launch, recognizing the importance of courage in the face of danger.
This quote by Sally Ride highlights the emotional complexity that astronauts experience before a launch. It captures the intertwining feelings of excitement, anxiety, and fear of failure in a critical moment. The reality of space missions is underscored by the recognition that anything can go wrong during launch, requiring profound courage from those involved, as they commit to an endeavor with high stakes and limited control over the outcome.
Themes
AstronautsCourageLaunchAnxietyRisk
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote during a speech about overcoming fears in high-risk jobs.
More from Sally Ride
All quotes →When the space shuttle's engines cut off, and you're finally in space, in orbit, weightless... I remember unstrapping from my seat, floating over to the window, and that's when I got my first view of Earth. Just a spectacular view, and a chance to see our planet as a planet.
Sally RideRead
All adventures, especially into new territory, are scary.
Sally RideRead
I did not come to NASA to make history.
Sally RideRead
Yes, I did feel a special responsibility to be the first American woman in space.
Sally RideRead
Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.
Sally RideRead
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