"You've done it in the simulator so many times, you don't have a real sense of being excited when the flight is going on. You're excited before, but as soon as the liftoff occurs, you are busy doing what you have to do"
About this Quote
Alan Shepard's quote provides a fascinating peek into the mindset and emotional experience of an astronaut during an area mission. Shepard emphasizes the extensive preparation that astronauts go through before a mission, particularly through using simulators. Simulations are designed to be as realistic as possible to prepare astronauts for each imaginable scenario they might face. This substantial practice helps to instill the required actions and actions into the astronauts' minds, making them nearly second nature when the actual minute arrives.
Shepard suggests that this intensive training decreases the sense of novelty or excitement normally associated with space travel. By the time the actual flight takes place, the procedures have ended up being regular due to many wedding rehearsals. This familiarity can moisten the instant psychological impact of the experience, as the astronaut is too concentrated on tasks to indulge in enjoyment.
When he states, "You're thrilled previously", Shepard implies that the anticipation and accumulation to the mission carry a palpable sense of excitement and suspense. The period leading up to the launch is filled with emotional highs as the reality of the upcoming mission sinks in. However, when liftoff finally takes place, there is a shift from psychological anticipation to execution. The focus shifts from the psychological to the technical, as astronauts must concentrate on their obligations throughout the mission. This mental switch underscores the importance of discipline and focus under pressure, qualities that are vital for the success of any mission.
Ultimately, Shepard's words highlight the professionalism and devotion required of astronauts. The quote reveals how preparation can change extraordinary experiences into performances of regular accuracy, underscoring the astronauts' commitment to their responsibilities as they venture into the unknown frontier of area.
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