Sky Walking : An Astronaut's Memoir

Jones, Tom

ISBN 10: 0060884363 / ISBN 13: 9780060884369

Published by Smithsonian Books, NY., 2006

About this Item

FINE. Paperback (large). SIGNED by AUTHOR, Astronaut Tom Jones, on title page with brief inscription - noting flights STS59-68-88-98. First edition paperback. [B206]. Seller Inventory # 010263

Bibliographic Details

Title: Sky Walking : An Astronaut's Memoir

Publisher: Smithsonian Books, NY.

Publication Date: 2006

Binding: Soft cover

Signed: Signed by Author

Edition: FIRST.

About this title

Synopsis:

A gripping first-hand account of life in space and the making of an astronaut. What is it like to fly the space shuttle and work on and in the International Space Station? Veteran NASA astronaut Tom Jones is uniquely qualified to give the details: he flew four shuttle missions and led three space walks to deliver the US Lab to the Station. . From B-52 pilot during the Cold War, to a PhD in planetary science, to the unbelievable rigors of astronaut training, his career inevitably pointed him toward the space shuttle. Until the Challenger exploded. Jones's story is the first to candidly explain the professional and personal hardships faced by the astronauts in the aftermath of that 1986 tragedy. He certainly has 'The Right Stuff' but also found himself wondering if the risks he undertook were worth the toll on his family. Liftoffs were especially nerve-wracking (his mother, who refuses to even get on a plane, cannot watch) but his 53 days in space were unforgettable adventures. Jones uses his background as a scientist to explain the practical applications of many of the shuttle's scientific missions, and describes what it's like to work with the international crews building and living aboard the space station. Tom Jones returned from his space station voyage to assess the impact of the 2003 Columbia tragedy, and prescribes a successful course for the U.S. in space. Stunning photographs, many taken in space, illustrate his amazing journey. 25 b/w photographs

About the Author:

Born and raised in Maryland, Tom Jones was a Distinguished Graduate of the United States Air Force Academy. During his career, he has piloted B-52s, earned a doctorate in planetary science, and worked for the CIA. He entered the NASA astronaut program in 1990 and flew four missions on the space shuttle. He lives with his family in Northern Virginia.