I had the privilege of attending the launch with a NASA
tweetup group and even though it was scrubbed, we
were graced with an extraordinary tour of the Kennedy
Space Center. So much history. So many amazing
artifacts from the entire history of space flight. I highly
recommend taking a tour of KSC’s visitor’s center.
Q: Favorite space movie?
Abe: 2001: A Space Odyssey. This film is one of my
earliest memories of space travel, and still seems the
most realistic. I remember as a young man sitting on
the massive grass terraces behind the Indianapolis
Museum of Art and watching Kubrick’s masterpiece on
a massive outdoor screen. Looking up at the glittering
night sky, it was easy to imagine that one day, man
would travel by space ship.
Q: Favorite astronaut, scientist, engineer or inventor?
Q: If you could play any part in any sci-fi/space film or
TV show, past, present, or future, what would it be?
Abe: That’s a lot of people to choose from. I admire Abe: Darth Vader. I actually do play Darth Vader in
anyone who has the discipline to pass the rigorous
physical and mental challenges required by space
travel. I am grateful to most of the scientists,
engineers and inventors throughout history, who’s
accomplishments have brought us into this marvelous
modern age.
the Robot Chicken Star Wars Specials, AND a semisuper-secret Star Wars show called Detours that may
eventually see the light of day. I would also love to play
Godzilla.
Q: Favorite planet?
Abe: Water. Sunscreen. A beach towel. Flip-flops. And
a record player (with records).
Abe: Mars holds a lot of allure, and seems like the most
Q: If you could travel to Mars, what five things would
you take with you?
likely candidate for human occupation in my lifetime.
I am fascinated by Venus, rolling clouds of carbon
dioxide. The most beautiful planet is Saturn. The unique
rings. The many moons. But ultimately Earth has to be
the favorite. It’s home.
Abe: I guess the rings of Saturn, but I would take the
scenic route.
Q: Favorite space agency?
Q: If you were a spacecraft which one would you be?
Abe: NASA, of course. I am particularly fond of the
work being done at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
I don’t think the general public really understands just
how much our space agencies do for the world.
Abe: In real life? I like Cassini. In fiction? Imperial Star
Destroyer!
Q: Favorite NASA mission?
Abe: It’s the final frontier. Is there other life (as we
Abe: STS-134. The second to last Space Shuttle launch.
72
72
Q: If you could travel to any single place in the solar
system where would you go?
Q: Why are you excited about space exploration?
know it) in the universe? Space exploration is a human
endeavor that could unite all the people of the world.
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