In 'Spaceman', astronaut Mike Massimino shares his exhilarating journey from a young boy dreaming of the stars to a veteran of the space shuttle program. With humor and heart, he reveals the trials of rigorous training and the awe-inspiring moments of spacewalks that defy imagination. Readers will be captivated by the blend of personal anecdotes and the formidable challenges of space exploration. Massimino's passion for science and adventure shines through, inspiring a new generation to look to the skies. Join him as he navigates the cosmos and his own life's greatest obstacles in a quest for knowledge and discovery.
By Mike Massimino
Published: 2016
""In the vastness of space, we discover not only the universe itself but also the limitless potential within each of us to reach for the stars.""
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Have you ever wondered what it would be like to find yourself strapped to a giant rocket that’s about to go from zero to 17,500 miles per hour? Or to look back on Earth from outer space and see the surprisingly precise line between day and night? Or to stand in front of the Hubble Space Telescope, wondering if the emergency repair you’re about to make will inadvertently ruin humankind’s chance to unlock the universe’s secrets? Mike Massimino has been there, and in Spaceman he puts you inside the suit, with all the zip and buoyancy of life in microgravity. Massimino’s childhood space dreams were born the day Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon. Growing up in a working-class Long Island family, he catapulted himself to Columbia and then MIT, only to flunk his first doctoral exam and be rejected three times by NASA before making it through the final round of astronaut selection. Taking us through the surreal wonder and beauty of his first spacewalk, the tragedy of losing friends in the Columbia shuttle accident, and the development of his enduring love for the Hubble Telescope—which he and his fellow astronauts were tasked with saving on his final mission—Massimino has written an ode to never giving up and the power of teamwork to make anything possible. Spaceman invites us into a rare, wonderful world where science meets the most thrilling adventure, revealing just what having “the right stuff” really means.
Mike Massimino is a former NASA astronaut and a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University. He is best known for his captivating memoir "Spaceman: An Astronaut's Unlikely Journey to Unlock the Secrets of the Universe," which chronicles his journey from a childhood dreamer to space traveler. Massimino is recognized for his engaging writing style that combines humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful reflections on space exploration and its impact on humanity. He is also a popular public speaker and has made numerous television appearances, where he shares his experiences of space missions and the importance of science and education.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "You Are a Badass," author Jen Sincero delivers a bold and empowering guide to unleashing your inner greatness. With humor and candor, she challenges readers to confront their self-doubt and embrace the power of positive thinking. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, Sincero ignites a fire for self-improvement, urging you to take charge of your life. This book is not just a self-help manual; it's a call to action for anyone ready to break free from mediocrity. Are you ready to step into your badass self and transform your reality?
Barbarians at the Gate recounts the thrilling true story of the fierce battle for control of RJR Nabisco, one of America's largest food companies, as the age of leveraged buyouts reaches a fever pitch. At the heart of the drama are ruthless financiers, corporate raiders, and the golden age of Wall Street, all vying for power and wealth amidst the excesses of the 1980s. As the stakes escalate, alliances shift and moral dilemmas arise, revealing the darker side of corporate ambition. This gripping tale not only exposes the lengths to which individuals will go for success but also critiques the very foundations of capitalism. Prepare to be captivated by the intrigue, betrayal, and sheer audacity of one of the biggest takeovers in history!
In "The Plant Paradox," Dr. Steven Gundry challenges conventional notions about healthy eating, revealing surprising truths about the concealed dangers of many plant-based foods. He introduces the concept of "leaky gut" and how certain proteins found in plants, called lectins, can sabotage our health and weight loss efforts. Through compelling science and personal anecdotes, Gundry unveils a revolutionary diet that encourages a radical rethinking of our relationship with food. With a blend of culinary wisdom and health hacks, he empowers readers to embrace a new way of nourishing themselves. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about plants and discover a path to vibrant health!
Hidden Figures unveils the incredible true story of three brilliant African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played pivotal roles at NASA during the Space Race. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, their groundbreaking work in mathematics, computing, and engineering helped launch John Glenn into orbit. As they navigate personal and professional challenges, the book showcases their resilience and unyielding spirit. This captivating narrative not only highlights their contributions but also reflects the broader struggle for equality in America. Discover how these unsung heroines transformed the future of space exploration and inspired generations to come!
Taking Charge of Your Fertility empowers readers with a groundbreaking approach to understanding their reproductive health. This illuminating guide unveils the intricacies of the menstrual cycle, introducing effective techniques for natural family planning. By blending science with practical advice, it demystifies fertility challenges and enhances awareness of one’s body. Whether you're seeking to conceive or prevent pregnancy, the book offers invaluable insights that can transform your perspective on fertility. Are you ready to take control of your reproductive journey and unlock the secrets within?
In 'The Conquest of Happiness', renowned philosopher Bertrand Russell explores the nature of joy and contentment, guiding readers towards a fulfilling life. He delves into the psychological barriers to happiness, revealing how societal pressures and personal fears can sabotage our joy. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, Russell champions the importance of love, work, and the pursuit of knowledge. He invites us to rethink our values and priorities, suggesting that true happiness lies in embracing simplicity and genuine connections. This thought-provoking work challenges us to confront our beliefs and inspires us to actively seek out a more joyful existence.
In 'Three Scientists and Their Gods', Robert Wright explores the profound connections between science, religion, and the human experience. He delves into the lives and thoughts of three pivotal figures—Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, and Isaac Newton—revealing how their groundbreaking ideas reshaped our understanding of the universe. Through a captivating narrative, Wright challenges the dichotomy between faith and reason, urging readers to consider the spiritual implications of scientific discoveries. With philosophical depth and historical insight, the book raises tantalizing questions about the nature of existence and the divine. Are our beliefs about God shaped by our scientific understanding, or is there something more? Discover how these monumental thinkers grappled with the mysteries of life.
In 'An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth', Chris Hadfield shares his remarkable journey from a small town in Canada to the vastness of space. With insightful anecdotes from his time aboard the International Space Station, he reveals how the challenges of space exploration parallel our everyday lives. Through the lens of an astronaut, he explores themes of preparation, perspective, and the power of teamwork. Hadfield's blend of humor and wisdom sparks curiosity about how we can all live our lives more fully, no matter where we are. This book inspires readers to embrace uncertainty and strive for their own stars.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Matt Ridley is a British journalist, author, and businessman, best known for his books on science, economics, and human progress, including The Rational Optimist and The Evolution of Everything. Ridley’s work focuses on the power of innovation, free markets, and human ingenuity to drive progress and improve living standards. He is a member of the House of Lords and has written extensively on topics such as genetics, evolution, and the environment. Ridley’s optimistic view of human progress and his ability to explain complex scientific ideas have made him a popular author and public intellectual.
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Andrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
Patrick Collison is an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of Stripe, a global technology company that enables businesses to accept online payments. Along with his brother John, Patrick has transformed Stripe into one of the most valuable private tech companies in the world. Stripe’s innovative approach to online payments has made it a key player in the financial technology space. Collison is known for his deep interest in science, technology, and policy, often engaging in conversations about innovation, progress, and how to improve societal outcomes. He is an advocate for scientific advancement and the intersection of technology and public policy.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Showing 8 of 25 related collections
“"In the vastness of space, we discover not only the universe itself but also the limitless potential within each of us to reach for the stars."”
Spaceman
By Mike Massimino
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.