The astronaut on her visit to Indiaš° next week and friendship with Kalpana Chawla
I donāt feel like a heroājust anothāer person involved in the space business. Iām hoping to encourage young folks to become explorers.
What are your fondest memories of India?
I have great memories of enjoying everyday life with ourš family and friends. Iām looking forward to doing thašt again.
How close were you and Kalpana Chawla?
She was a great friend and truly an inspiration. Iām lucky to have gained her family asš friends as ša result of our friendship.
You spent the most time in space. Doesnāt it get lonely up there? How did you cope?
There were three of us there and thousands on the ground keeping us safe. āI didnāt feel lonely. There was a huge family working to make sure we were getting all the things needed done.
What are some memorable experiences?
The space walks were amazing ą¼ŗwith the incredible views. But just being there representing humanity was truly rewarding.
What did you miss most while in space?
Family, friends and especially my dog since I couldnāt email or talk to him. I also missed having a glass of milk to dunk cookies into. I missź¦ ed rain and the feel of wind on my face.
Now that youāre back on earth what do you miss most about space?
Everything! The view of course, the floating, the peacefulness of looking down at such a serene planet. Itź§ truly is a beautiful place.
What was it like participating in the Boston marathon from space?
It was fun, but difficult just like it is on earth. 26.2 miles of running is a long way. Luckily, I didnāt have hills š¬like the runners in Boston.
How did you celebrate the return to earth?
Juą¦st hung out š²with my family and dog. We got some pizza and that tasted really good!
Whatās your favourite Indian food?
Samosas, of course!