For a novel on the first women astronauts, Taylor Jenkins Reid studied old NASA PDFs
In this episode of NPR's Book of the Day, author Taylor Jenkins Reid discusses her novel about NASA's early women astronauts. Set in 1984, the book follows two fictional characters: Joan Goodwin at Mission Control and Vanessa Ford aboard a damaged space shuttle. Reid explains her research process, which included studying 1970s NASA documents and touring Johnson Space Center with a former flight director.
The discussion explores how Reid crafted her characters' experiences to reflect the real challenges women faced in NASA's male-dominated environment of the 1970s and 1980s. Through her narrative of two astronauts who develop a secret romantic relationship, Reid depicts how these pioneers managed both professional obstacles—from ill-fitting equipment to colleague skepticism—and personal struggles during their time in the space program.
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1-Page Summary
The Plot and Characters of "Atmosphere"
In "Atmosphere," a gripping novel set in 1984, two narratives interweave: a space shuttle disaster aboard the Navigator and the compelling backstories of astronauts Joan Goodwin and Vanessa Ford. The story unfolds as Joan, from Mission Control, communicates with the Navigator's crew during a critical pressure leak caused by shrapnel damage, while Vanessa remains the only astronaut able to maintain contact from the troubled spacecraft.
The novel alternates between this crisis and the characters' earlier years at NASA, where Joan and Vanessa meet as members of NASA's second cohort of women astronauts. Their professional journey becomes more complex as they develop a secret romantic relationship, complicated by the era's social constraints.
Research Process and Historical Accuracy
Author Taylor Jenkins Reid conducted extensive research to ensure authentic representation of the space shuttle program. She toured Johnson Space Center with former NASA flight director Paul Dye and studied 1970s NASA documents to master technical details. This meticulous approach extended beyond the machinery to capture the social environment of NASA during this period.
Challenges Faced by First Women Astronauts At NASA
The novel highlights how early women astronauts navigated a male-focused environment, from ill-fitting equipment to skepticism from male colleagues unaccustomed to women in technical roles. Through Joan Goodwin's story, Reid illustrates how these pioneering women's determination and passion for space exploration helped forge greater gender integration at NASA, despite facing numerous obstacles and having to apply multiple times for acceptance into the astronaut corps.
1-Page Summary
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Actionables
- Explore the history of space exploration through interactive storytelling by creating a choose-your-own-adventure game based on real events and challenges faced by astronauts. This game could be as simple as a text-based story on a platform like Twine, where you make decisions for your character that are based on the real-life experiences of early women astronauts. Your choices could lead to different outcomes, reflecting the impact of gender biases and the perseverance needed to succeed.
- Start a virtual book club focused on novels and memoirs about space exploration, emphasizing stories of underrepresented groups in STEM fields. By reading and discussing books like "Atmosphere," you can gain a deeper understanding of the personal and professional challenges faced by these pioneers. This can be a way to connect with others who share an interest in space and promote a dialogue about diversity and inclusion in science and technology.
- Use social media to highlight lesser-known stories of women and minority astronauts by creating posts or a series of short videos that share their achievements and struggles. You can research astronauts who have broken barriers and share their stories in a relatable way, perhaps drawing parallels to the characters in "Atmosphere." This can raise awareness about the contributions of diverse individuals to space exploration and inspire others to learn more about this field.
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The Plot and Characters of "Atmosphere"
"Atmosphere" is a riveting novel that alternates between a gripping space shuttle disaster in the 1980s and the poignant backstories of its astronaut characters, Joan Goodwin and Vanessa Ford.
1980s Space Shuttle Disaster Threatens Astronauts' Lives
The novel opens in a dramatic setting: the year is 1984 at the Johnson Space Center, where Joan Goodwin is overseeing a critical mission aboard the space shuttle Navigator. As Mission Control's communication link, Joan speaks with the crew during a life-threatening crisis that involves a rapid pressure drop within the shuttle. The crew must locate the leak or face certain death.
The tension escalates when Vanessa Ford, aboard the troubled Navigator, becomes the sole astronaut able to maintain contact with Mission Control. A mishap during a satellite deployment leads to an influx of shrapnel, piercing the airlock and causing the cabin pressure to plummet dangerously.
The Novel Alternates Between the Crisis 250 Miles Above Earth and Astronauts Joan Goodwin and Vanessa Ford's Backstories
The story unfolds in the early 1980s and seamlessly switches from the present calamity in space to the formative years leading up to the mission. Joan and Vanessa are introduced as members of NASA's second-ever cohort to include women. The narrative delves into their rigorous training and the formation of their close bond.
Astronomer Joan Goodwin Joins NASA's Astronaut Corps
Joan Goodwin, a passionate astronomer, has always harbored a deep love for the stars. Learning of the opportunity for women to join NASA's a ...
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The Plot and Characters of "Atmosphere"
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- You can explore crisis management by simulating a high-pressure situation at home, like a timed puzzle or game, to practice staying calm and making decisions under stress. By setting a timer and challenging yourself to solve a complex puzzle, you'll experience a fraction of the pressure astronauts face, helping you develop composure and problem-solving skills that are valuable in any crisis.
- Create a star chart and spend an evening stargazing to connect with the passion of an astronomer like Joan Goodwin. This activity requires no special equipment; just find a dark spot and use a simple star map from the internet to identify constellations. This can foster an appreciation for astronomy and the vastness of space, much like the characters in the story.
- Write a short story or journal entry from the ...
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Research Process and Historical Accuracy
When it comes to historical accuracy, author Taylor Jenkins Reid leaves no stone unturned to ensure that her portrayal of the space shuttle program stands the test of time and scrutiny.
Author Taylor Jenkins Reid Ensured the Novel Accurately Portrays the Space Shuttle Program
Taylor Jenkins Reid's dedication takes her to the heart of space exploration history.
Reid Toured Johnson Space Center and Consulted With Ex-nasa Director Paul Dye
To dive deep into the intricacies of the space shuttle program, Taylor Jenkins Reid visited the Johnson Space Center. She stepped into a decommissioned space shuttle, allowing her to experience first-hand the environment she would write about. Accompanying her was Paul Dye, whose expertise as the longest-serving flight director at NASA provided Reid with an invaluable resource. Dye, who has since retired, served during the space shuttle program, and his knowledge adds a layer of credibility to Reid’s work.
Reid Used 1970s Nasa Documents to Study the Space Program
Moreover, Reid studied the space program thoroughly through old NASA PDFs and papers from the 1970s. She focused on learning about the payload bay doors and other technical components, showing that her research went beyond mere anecdotes to include the more intricate technical details.
Challenges of First Women Astronauts in NASA's Male Culture
This at ...
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Research Process and Historical Accuracy
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Counterarguments
- While Reid's efforts to ensure accuracy are commendable, it's important to note that even with thorough research, some aspects of historical fiction may be subject to creative interpretation, which could lead to minor inaccuracies or anachronisms.
- Consulting with a single ex-NASA director, while valuable, may not provide a complete picture of the space shuttle program, as it is beneficial to gather multiple perspectives to ensure a well-rounded portrayal.
- The use of 1970s NASA documents is a strong basis for research, but it's possible that not all relevant information from the era is available or has been preserved, potentially leading to gaps in historical representation.
- Highlighting the challenges of the first women astronauts is crucial, but it's also important to recognize that individual experiences may have varied, and not all women may have faced the same level of skepticism or bias.
- The depiction of NASA's male-dominated culture is based on historical context, but it's essential to acknowledge that there were also allies and advocates for women within the organ ...
Actionables
- You can explore the history of women in your own profession by researching and creating a timeline or visual representation. Start by looking into the early female pioneers in your field, noting the obstacles they faced and how the industry has changed over time. This could be a personal project or shared on social media to educate others and celebrate progress.
- Start a book club with a focus on novels that delve into historical challenges of underrepresented groups. Choose books from various industries and time periods to understand the breadth of experiences and discuss how these narratives reflect broader societal issues. This encourages empathy and a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusion.
- Engage with local schools or you ...
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Challenges Faced by First Women Astronauts At NASA
The emergence of the first women astronauts at NASA marked a significant turning point in the history of space exploration, featuring a blend of triumphs and tribulations as these pioneering women navigated a field designed without them in mind.
Women Astronauts Faced Environments and Cultures Not Designed for Them
Women in the astronaut corps encountered many challenges as they had to operate in environments and cultures that were historically tailored exclusively for men.
NASA's Male-Focused Equipment and Practices Prompted Women to Push For Change
Upon their arrival, it quickly became evident that numerous aspects of the astronaut program were designed with only the male body in mind. The first rounds of women astronauts had to point out the necessity for changes in space suits, parachutes, and harnesses.
Women Astronauts Met Skepticism From Male Colleagues Unaccustomed to Women in High-Stakes Technical Fields
NASA and the press underwent a significant adjustment period to accommodate the new reality of women joining the astronaut corps. There was also a learning curve for men at NASA, who had to adapt to working alongside women in a high-stakes, technical environment. At times, this involved overcoming entrenched skepticism from male colleagues not accustomed to women occupying such roles.
Women Astronauts' Determination and Purpose Paved the Way for Greater Gender Integration at NASA
The Novel Highlights Women Astronauts' Passion For Space and Drive to Achieve Dreams Despite Obstacles
The novel ...
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Challenges Faced by First Women Astronauts At NASA
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can support gender inclusivity in STEM by purchasing and gifting toys and games that encourage scientific exploration to children of all genders. By choosing items that break away from traditional gender stereotypes, such as space-themed building sets or science kits that are marketed to all children, you help promote an early interest in space and science for everyone, potentially inspiring the next generation of astronauts.
- Consider starting a book club focused on literature by and about women in STEM fields to raise awareness and appreciation for their contributions. Select books that tell the stories of women who have overcome barriers in their fields, similar to the women astronauts' experiences, and use these stories as a springboard for discussions on gender equality and perseverance in your own community.
- Y ...
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