«Astronauts»

Anyone who sits on top of the largest hydrogen-oxygen fueled system in the world; knowing they’re going to light the bottom—and doesn’t get a little worried—does not fully understand the situation.

John Young, Astronaut

Space exploration and experimentation are critically valuable to our nation. I know of no better way to honor those seven who sacrificed their lives than to recommit ourselves to defend and enhance America’s important strategies in space.

Rob Bishop

I remember growing up thinking that astronauts and their job was the coolest thing you could possibly do... But I absolutely couldn’t identify with the people who were astronauts. I thought they were movie stars.

David M. Brown, Space Shuttle Astronaut

Astronauts are inherently insane. And really noble.

Andy Weir, The Martian

Is manned space exploration important? Yes - not least because it simply works much better than sending robots.

Henry Spencer

If offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat. Just get on.

Christa McAuliffe, Teacher and Challenger Astronaut

Of course risk is part of spaceflight. We accept some of that to achieve greater goals in exploration and find out more about ourselves and the universe.

Lisa Nowak, Space Shuttle Astronaut

If we are to send people, it must be for a very good reason - and with a realistic understanding that almost certainly we will lose lives. Astronauts and Cosmonauts have always understood this. Nevertheless, there has been and will be no shortage of volunteers.

Carl Sagan

Through you, we feel as giants, once again.

President Ronald Reagan,

to the Crew of the First Shuttle Mission

If you want a nation to have space exploration ambitions, you’ve got to send humans.

Neil deGrasse Tyson