New NASA astronauts are gearing up for exciting missions to the moon and potential private space stations, expressing their enthusiasm for turning science fiction into reality. A group of astronauts and astronaut candidates from NASA and the Canadian Space Agency recently posed for a photograph in front of NASA’s Artemis I Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher at Launch Complex 39B.

Jack Hathaway, a U.S. Navy commander and pilot, shared his nerve-wracking experience of receiving the news of his selection as a NASA astronaut candidate. Despite being on the carrier ship USS Truman, Hathaway missed several calls from NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman. Eventually, Hathaway received the news via email and had to contain his excitement in front of a group of officers on the ship.

The group of astronauts and astronaut candidates includes a diverse mix of individuals from both NASA and the Canadian Space Agency. Their training and preparations for upcoming missions demonstrate the commitment and dedication required for space exploration.

As they look forward to their future missions, these astronauts are eager to bring the awe-inspiring visions of space exploration to life. Their enthusiasm reflects the ongoing advancements and opportunities in space exploration, paving the way for new discoveries and achievements beyond Earth’s atmosphere.