The Everyday Space Traveler
Discover 9 Life-affirming Insights into the Wonders of Inner and Outer Space
- 2012 INDIES Winner
- Silver, Science (Adult Nonfiction)
- 2012 INDIES Finalist
- Finalist, Adventure & Recreation (Adult Nonfiction)
- 2012 INDIES Finalist
- Finalist, Young Adult Nonfiction (Children's)
Unexplored horizons, both infinitesimal and boundless, intrigue humans, and the potential discoveries they hold continue to contribute to the development of planet Earth. Much remains to be known and improved upon, and some concerned citizens advocate for addressing the challenges here on earth before venturing into outer space. Others find the horizons beyond our planet’s atmosphere irresistible, and believe that solutions to earthly concerns might be discovered there.
Jason Klassi belongs to the second group. In The Everyday Space Traveler, he describes what the average person’s experience of space travel might be like. Set in the year 2099, an “everyday space traveler” keeps a log that records his experiences during a hypothetical two-year visit to Mars, where a colony of fellow humans has already been established. Travel tips interspersed throughout the book provide suggestions for aspiring voyagers who want to replicate the sensations of being in space while still on earth. The author’s nine insights describe intrinsic benefits to be gained from space travel. Ideally, Klassi’s insights may lead to deeper appreciation of life on earth.
The book is printed on glossy paper, and color photographs and drawings add visual clarity reflecting Klassi’s professional experience as a documentary film producer. His work has been shown on television and presented at international events. A published writer with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the International Astronautical Congress, he has received the Space Tourism Society’s Orbit Award.
Many people like to travel, seeking experiences in foreign countries that might expand their understanding of human existence. Others prefer to stay closer to home, finding comfort and security within familiar surroundings. Klassi believes that traveling beyond such a narrow scope broadens our understanding in diverse ways. He says, “People want to change themselves, to undergo a transformation, to become someone new.”
Navigation of a spacecraft requires a specific kind of focus, known as triangulation, to ascertain the ship’s distance from earth, and its location in space. Without this technique, the craft would become irretrievably lost. Klassi explains. “If your car has a GPS or Global Positioning Satellite system, then you are triangulating with satellites orbiting high above your head to locate your destination.”
Humans have wondered about the existence of life in outer space for thousands of years, contemplating the answer to that crucial question, as they still do today. “Without proof, the possibility remains that our fragile planet could be the singular beginning of life in the universe − or the end of it,” the author explains.
This well-written book presents possible options for private space travel, from existing technology to conceivable projects in the future. Klassi includes interesting factual information and visual imagery to lend credence to his premise. Regrettably, several typographical and grammatical errors detract from this otherwise professionally-produced book.
Those who yearn to know what lies beyond earth’s boundaries will appreciate The Everyday Space Traveler. Although it may not appeal to the general reading public, it could change the opinion of some who doubt the value of continuing exploration of the infinite unknown.
Reviewed by
Margaret Cullison
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
