Exclusive: At 75, NASA Astronaut Still Calls Space ‘Incredible’ — and the Body It Changes Forever
NASA veteran Winston Elliott Scott flew twice to orbit, in 1996 and 1997, aboard two different shuttles. Together he logged just over 24 days in space and participated in three spacewalks. Now 75 and retired since 1999, he belongs to a growing group of veterans who have faced radiation, long periods of microgravity, and the jolt of rapid acceleration — and, perhaps, the occasional alien microbe NASA never discussed. ScienceAlert sat down with him for an exclusive interview to hear what space really does to the body and the mind, and what NASA does to look after its astronauts across generations.
In This Article:
Two Missions, More Than 24 Days in Space
Scott’s two missions took place in the mid-1990s, 1996 and 1997, aboard different space shuttles. Together they totaled just over 24 days in orbit and included three spacewalks that tested his limits. Since retiring from NASA and the U.S. Navy in 1999, he has not traveled to space again.
Space Takes a Toll — and NASA Pays Attention
In the exclusive interview, Winston reflects on the unknowns of long-duration flight and the day-to-day realities of life in a tiny capsule, floating above Earth. He also speaks to the broader question: what kind of impacts does space travel have on the human body, and on the mind? NASA tracks and cares for its astronauts across generations, seeking to understand, mitigate, and manage these effects.
Watch the Clip — Hear Winston Directly
The clip offers a personal look at Winston’s experience and a window into NASA’s approach to astronaut health, past, present, and future. You’ll hear his insights on how space travel affects the body and mind, and how NASA supports astronauts throughout their careers.
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