How do astronauts train for the rigors of a mission into space?
After selection into the astronaut corps, each astronaut receives initial ASCAN (Astronaut Candidate) training – a two year process where we learn the basics of the shuttle, space station, PR work, geology, astronomy, and indoctrination into the workings of the various NASA centers. Physical fitness always gets a priority (throughout our stay with NASA) as well as flying the T-38 to retain pilot proficiency. After the ASCAN years, we began to specialize in our areas of expertise – in my case I have focused more on duties as a pilot of the space shuttle. We also occasionally received enrichment “expedition” training where we learned team techniques in a field environment (isolated/hostile environments in Antarctica, Canada, Russia, and the United States) to simulate some of the challenges on orbit. I had the opportunity to travel to the Wind River Mountain Range in Wyoming with 12 other astronauts (7 from the STS-107 crew and 5 others) where we backpacked for 10 days, hiking about 50 mi
