Questions to Ask an Astronaut
Fascinating questions to ask astronauts about space travel, life in orbit, training, and what it's like to see Earth from above.
1What does Earth look like from space?
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What does Earth look like from space?
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Why this works
Captures the profound perspective shift of seeing our planet from orbit—often called the 'overview effect.'
2What was going through your mind during launch?
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What was going through your mind during launch?
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Why this works
Reveals the emotional and mental experience of one of humanity's most extreme moments.
3How does your body feel in zero gravity?
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How does your body feel in zero gravity?
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Why this works
Provides insight into the physical sensations of weightlessness that most people will never experience.
4What's the most challenging part of living in space?
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What's the most challenging part of living in space?
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Why this works
Highlights unexpected difficulties beyond the obvious dangers of space travel.
5What do you miss most about Earth when you're in space?
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What do you miss most about Earth when you're in space?
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Why this works
Humanizes the experience and reveals what we take for granted on our planet.
6How long did you train to become an astronaut?
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How long did you train to become an astronaut?
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Why this works
Sets realistic expectations about the dedication and preparation required for space missions.
7What's the scariest moment you've experienced in space?
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What's the scariest moment you've experienced in space?
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Why this works
Uncovers the real dangers and how astronauts handle fear in life-threatening situations.
8How do you eat, sleep, and use the bathroom in space?
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How do you eat, sleep, and use the bathroom in space?
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Why this works
Satisfies curiosity about the practical realities of daily life in microgravity.
9What does space smell like?
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What does space smell like?
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Why this works
Addresses a surprising sensory detail that astronauts often describe uniquely.
10How has going to space changed your perspective on life?
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How has going to space changed your perspective on life?
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Why this works
Explores the philosophical and existential impact of leaving Earth.
11What scientific experiments or research did you conduct in space?
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What scientific experiments or research did you conduct in space?
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Why this works
Highlights the important work astronauts do beyond just being in space.
12What was re-entry and landing like?
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What was re-entry and landing like?
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Why this works
Describes one of the most intense and dangerous phases of space travel.
13How do you stay physically fit in zero gravity?
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How do you stay physically fit in zero gravity?
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Why this works
Reveals the exercise routines needed to prevent muscle and bone loss in space.
14What's your favorite memory from your time in space?
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What's your favorite memory from your time in space?
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Why this works
Allows them to share a personal, meaningful moment from an extraordinary experience.
15How do you communicate with your family while you're in orbit?
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How do you communicate with your family while you're in orbit?
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Why this works
Shows the human side of space missions and how astronauts stay connected to loved ones.
16What advice would you give someone who wants to become an astronaut?
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What advice would you give someone who wants to become an astronaut?
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Why this works
Provides actionable guidance for aspiring space explorers.
17Did anything unexpected happen during your mission?
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Did anything unexpected happen during your mission?
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Why this works
Uncovers surprising moments or challenges that weren't part of the plan.
18What's it like to see the sun rise and set multiple times a day?
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What's it like to see the sun rise and set multiple times a day?
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Why this works
Highlights one of the unique visual experiences of orbiting Earth every 90 minutes.
19How do you psychologically prepare for the isolation and confinement?
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How do you psychologically prepare for the isolation and confinement?
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Why this works
Explores the mental fortitude required for long-duration space missions.
20If you could go back to space tomorrow, would you?
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If you could go back to space tomorrow, would you?
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Why this works
Reveals whether the experience was worth the risks and challenges.
Best Practices for Interviewing Astronauts
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Ask About Both Technical and Human Experiences
Balance questions about science and technology with personal, emotional aspects of space travel.
Show Genuine Curiosity
Astronauts love sharing their passion for space. Your enthusiasm will encourage deeper answers.
Respect Their Expertise
They're highly trained professionals. Avoid oversimplifying or sensationalizing space travel.
Ask Follow-Up Questions
When they mention something interesting, dig deeper. Their stories often have fascinating layers.
Question Sequences
The Launch to Landing Sequence
The Daily Life in Space Sequence
The Perspective Shift Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ask Only About Danger
While risks are real, focusing only on fear misses the wonder and achievement of space exploration.
Don't Treat Them as Celebrities Only
They're scientists and engineers first. Show interest in their technical work, not just the fame.
Don't Ask Overly Technical Questions You Can't Follow Up On
Unless you have expertise, stick to questions you can genuinely engage with in their answers.
Don't Forget They're Human
Ask about emotions, challenges, and personal growth—not just rockets and science.