Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer our questions. It’s appreciated, and I think I can speak for everyone when I say that we envy you, and wish for your safe return at the end of your one-year mission aboard the ISS. Now on to my questions.
I understand that being on a spacewalk for 6 hours necessitates the donning of a M.A.G, or a nappy as the British refer to it. Have you ever had a laugh at yourself while putting one on? As a veteran I know how much fun we would have at each other’s expense if one of us was forced to wear one of those things. Is this joking around an element of the comradery on the station, or does everyone remain straight faced and completely professional?
Being part of the one-year mission, I understand that you have to collect quite a few biological samples for analysis. How many biological samples do you have to collect? Is it a daily thing? I also understand that NASA collects your urine to analyze the rate of bone loss among astronauts in space. How do you feel about your urine being considered a national treasure? Is it amusing to you that it is literally locked in vault back here on Earth? I also assume that these samples are sent back to NASA with returning astronauts, and that they are voluminous. If so, has it ever crossed your mind that you’re surrounded by blood, urine and other biological samples while making a multi-G return flight to the surface of the planet?
I subscribe to NASA’s YouTube channel and enjoy watching the interviews you guys give to various media outlets. First, I’ve noticed that you and Mikhail Korniyenko pay special attention to never share a negative opinion in regards to other astronauts, politicians, or countries. You always stress the importance of working together. Is this directed by NASA, or was that a personal choice? Second, What’s the strangest question you’ve been asked during one of these interviews? Also, how many times have you hit your head while attempting a zero g back flip for the cameras. According to Tim Peak it’s difficult to get the hang of. Thanks :)