Chris Hadfield: From Space Commander to Thrilling Novelist
Chris Hadfield, the former commander of the International Space Station, is widely known for his performance of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” while in orbit. In recent years, Hadfield has added a new career to his resume as a writer of thrilling novels inspired by the true history of the space race.
Transition to Novel Writing
Chris Hadfield began his journey into novel writing after retiring from a 35-year government service career. During this time, Chris served as a NASA astronaut for 21 years and completed three space missions. After retirement, he authored six books and co-led several space and technology companies.
Hadfield explained that his love for writing has existed since his school days. Although his studies were in engineering, his passion for writing never waned, as he always had a desire to challenge himself and write novels that captivate readers.
Inspiration from Space and History
The extensive experience Hadfield gained from his career as an astronaut has greatly enriched his novels. He draws on his personal memories and deep knowledge of the intricate details of space operations to make his stories not only thrilling but also realistically believable.
In his novels, such as “Final Orbit,” Hadfield incorporates real historical events and figures like President Richard Nixon and Henry Kissinger. This blend of reality and fiction provides readers with a rich and exciting experience.
Interaction with Geopolitical Events
The novel “Final Orbit” explores the 1970s, a period filled with geopolitical tensions. Hadfield highlights how these tensions closely resemble current global affairs, offering readers a deeper understanding of historical and political contexts.
The novel features global powers such as the United States, the Soviet Union, and China, reflecting the technological and geopolitical conflicts prevalent during that era. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the fictional events in the novel.
The Challenge of Writing Novels vs. Space Travel
When asked which is more challenging, space travel or writing novels, Hadfield responded that space travel is more difficult. Despite the large number of books published annually, only a few people have traveled to space. It requires years of training and preparation, in addition to meeting numerous medical and technical requirements.
On the other hand, Hadfield considers writing novels a significant challenge, but he notes that the extensive experience and comprehensive research he has conducted throughout his life have helped him produce successful literary works.
Conclusion
Chris Hadfield is not only a successful astronaut but also a talented writer who has combined his passion for space and writing to create thrilling and engaging novels. By merging historical facts with fiction, Hadfield offers readers a unique experience that transcends the boundaries of reality and opens new horizons for thinking about geopolitical and historical events. Reading his works, such as “Final Orbit,” provides readers with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of how historical events interact with literary fiction, making it an unforgettable reading experience.