Exploring the Unknown: The World of Astronauts and Astronomy

Introduction

Drifting in an infinite void, weightless, unravelling the enigmatic mysteries of the cosmos, uncovering uncharted realms—such is the ethereal experience of being an astronaut. Yet, this vocation brims with peril and promise; its impact on the world depends on circumstances. The study of astronomy, a truly enlightening pursuit, bestows students with invaluable skills to shape their futures. The art of collaboration, problem-solving acumen, adept communication, and the art of research all flourish under its tutelage. Interestingly, astronauts have attested that space carries the peculiar aroma of seared steak, sizzling metal, and the tang of welding fumes. Remarkably, not only humans but also dogs, monkeys, rabbits, and even mice have journeyed to the stars.

The Oldest Science

To commence, astronomy stands as the eldest of sciences. Its appellation derives from the Greek term "ástron," signifying "star," and "nautēs," meaning "sailor." In antiquity, before the advent of technology, ancient cultures observed celestial bodies through the lens of divinity and spirits, associating these luminous entities with natural occurrences like rain, drought, seasons, and tides. It is widely believed that the pioneers of astronomy were the revered priests. Additionally, the concept of calendars proved to be instrumental, allowing for the optimal timing of agricultural endeavors. Julius Caesar introduced a revolutionary calendar featuring twelve months, 365 days, and an ingenious leap year. Furthermore, here are some notable astronauts and their illustrious achievements:

• Soviet Yuri Gagarin, the trailblazer, journeyed into the cosmos aboard Vostok 1 on April 12, 1961, orbiting the Earth for 108 minutes.
• Soviet Valentina Tereshkova earned her place in history as the first woman in space, launched on Vostok 6 on June 16, 1963, and orbiting the Earth for nearly three days.
• Saudi Arabian Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdul-Aziz Al-Saud, in 1995, became the first Arab to venture into space.
• Neil Armstrong etched his name into the annals of space exploration by being the first human to set foot on the Moon in 1969.
• Gherman Titov holds the honor of being the youngest man in space, having flown on Vostok 2 at the age of 25.
• John Glenn, a true pioneer, became the oldest man in space at 77 when he embarked on STS-95.

The Astronaut's Calling

Indeed, the life of an astronaut is replete with challenges, especially while soaring through the cosmos. Various types of astronauts carry out their distinctive duties, each critical to the mission's success:

• Commander Astronaut: This esteemed astronaut oversees the spacecraft, crew, and flight safety, shouldering the responsibility for the mission's triumph.
• Pilot Astronaut: The second in command, supporting and assisting the Commander Astronaut.
• Mission Specialist: Embracing the profound significance of spacewalks and conducting vital scientific research aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
• Payload Specialist: Although not classified as an astronaut, they lend their expertise to specific mission experiments.

A Day in the Life of an Astronaut

Picturing the arduous routine of an astronaut is an intriguing prospect. To maintain muscle tone and fitness, an astronaut must devote two and a half hours daily to exercise while partaking in three meals each day. Failure to adhere to this regimen leads to the gradual loss of muscle and bone density, rendering them susceptible and bereft of the physical prowess needed for exigent situations. The following three exercises are integral to the well-being of astronauts in space:

• Cycle Ergometer: Resembling a terrestrial bicycle, this apparatus involves simply pedaling.
• Treadmill: Replicating the familiar act of walking and jogging, simulating Earthly movements.
• Resistance Exercise Device (RED): Comparable to weight-lifting machines, astronauts pull, twist, and stretch rubber-band-like cords attached to pulleys.

The Path to Becoming an Astronaut

Aspiring astronauts pursuing astronomy must attain a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or mathematics, accompanied by three years of relevant professional experience. Additionally, they must successfully pass the NASA astronaut physical examination. An array of auxiliary skills, such as scuba diving, wilderness survival, and leadership experience, elevate candidates' suitability for the esteemed role. Institutions like the American University of Sharjah (AUS) and New York University (NYU) in the UAE offer excellent academic opportunities for those who prefer to remain within the country's borders. Notably, prospective astronauts must meet certain criteria to qualify:

• Freedom from any ailment or disease.
• Independence from any form of drug, alcohol, or tobacco dependency.
• Unrestricted range of motion and full joint functionality.
• Perfect visual acuity in both eyes.
• Freedom from any psychiatric disorders.

Traits of a Future Astronaut

Pursuing the path of an astronaut necessitates a constellation of qualities: diligence, teamwork, self-assurance, autonomy, and an unwavering passion for the cosmos, among others.

Preparing for the Journey

Preparation is key to pursuing our dreams, and aspiring astronauts must undertake a specific set of courses to forge their path. These include algebra, astronomy, biology, computer applications, physical science, and physics. Personally, I harbor an abundance of career aspirations, from fostering life on distant planets to engineering the fastest space shuttle, from exploring uncharted galaxies to achieving recognition as an esteemed astronaut.

Fields Allied to the Cosmos

Every profession gives rise to a web of related career fields. For instance, aerospace engineering is inherently intertwined with various complementary vocations:

• Aerospace Engineers: Masterminds behind the development of cutting-edge aircraft and spacecraft.
• Computer Engineers: Innovators in computer hardware and software design.
• Material Engineers: Pioneers discovering and designing new materials.
• Mechanical Engineers: Architects of mechanical systems, involved in their analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance.
• Robotics Engineers: Visionaries who conceive, create, and operate robots.
• Instrumentation Engineers: Experts in the measurement and recording of physical quantities.
• Telecommunications Engineers: Enablers who bolster and enhance telecommunication systems.

Rewarding Astronomical Efforts

Astronauts, facing extraordinary challenges, justly deserve remuneration commensurate with their endeavors. Astronauts' salaries fall into two categories, contingent on their status:

Civilian Salaries: These vary based on the astronaut's grade, ranging between GS-11 and GS-14. While entry-level civilian astronauts commence with a yearly salary of $66,000, seasoned veterans can earn up to $144,566 annually. Military Salaries: Most astronauts hail from military backgrounds, with their allowances determined by their rank. For example, a captain garners $96,360 annually after eight years of experience and service, increasing to $96,876 after ten years. After two decades of service, a captain's pay could reach a staggering $123,450 per year.

Seldom does one harbor a fascination for embarking on the astronaut's path. Families often envision their offspring becoming doctors, dentists, engineers, lawyers, or surgeons, avoiding risky and hazardous professions such as soldiers, policemen, or firefighters. Indeed, the job of an astronaut surmounts all hazards. In the vast expanse of space, they are disconnected from their families, surrounded by an environment bereft of oxygen, replete with low gravity and a plethora of enigmatic realms—galaxies, planets, black holes, and wormholes. Parental apprehension arises from the fear of potential mishaps befalling their offspring as astronauts. Embracing the calling of an astronaut necessitates facing the consequences of separation from loved ones.

Cosmic Benefits

Embarking on the path of an astronaut brings forth numerous rewards. The foremost advantage is the opportunity to venture into space—an experience denied to most. Reasons for this vary from lacking the necessary expertise to indifference toward the cosmos, or simply from the fear of potential misfortunes. The transformative experience of living in space serves as a powerful tool in attracting future candidates. Accomplished astronauts can inspire youngsters and teenagers to follow in their footsteps, securing a brighter future for the domain of space exploration. Alas, the voyage to space, though fascinating, is not without its perils. Health issues faced by astronauts include cardiac problems, cognitive impairment, hearing loss, kidney stones, radiation hazards, and vision impairment.

Conclusion

The calling of an astronaut is an arduous and challenging one. Humanity, with its limited knowledge of the vast cosmos, requires more courageous souls to explore the unknown. As astronauts traverse the stars, they encounter a myriad of experiences, both uplifting and formidable. Such adventurers have the potential to inspire others to pursue the path of space exploration. In choosing our ideal vocations, we invariably gravitate towards what captivates us. Personally, I aspire to be an astronaut not for the allure of salaries or material gains, but to fulfill a profound dream and to contribute to the preservation of our world and the potential for life beyond our own sphere.