The Life of an Astronaut with Jon McBride

The Dr. Jaime Show

Former astronaut, Jon McBride, has lived a remarkable life. From the time he was a young boy he had dreams of going to space. He later became an astronaut on the maiden voyage of The Columbia Space Shuttle. Saying that Jon has several years of military, NASA and business experience hardly covers what he has accomplished throughout his life.

Along with being an aeronautical engineer, fighter pilot, aviator, naval officer and astronaut, Jon is also a kind, wise man. He’s likable and down-to-earth (despite going to space).

In this episode, Jon talks about his mission on The Columbia Space Shuttle. His crew observed the earth from space and made important observations, including the examination of spiral eddies in the ocean.

Jon also explains the benefits of space exploration for society. Tens of thousands of patented technologies come from, and continue to be developed from, NASA research. These technologies are used every day by you and me. Many of these advancements are common place now, but were major breakthroughs at the time. An example? How about GPS.

It makes sense that Jon would be an advocate for education and he encourages all “youngsters”, as he would say, to study hard. He believes education is the road to success. Throughout this episode, Jon gives many tips on how to achieve your dreams.

Finally, he answers questions from viewers on just about everything you can imagine. What going to the bathroom in space is like, aliens, sleeping in space, and many others.

Take time to listen to a man who has left a tremendous legacy behind him. His wisdom and experience will blow you away.

Key Takeaways:

[:35] Astronaut, Jon McBride is introduced. His list of accomplishment and accolades is impressive.

[4:45] Jon talks about the highlights of his life and career.

[7:47] Jon’s mission on the Space Shuttle was an Earth Observation Mission. He talks about several things his crew learned, from space, about Earth.

[11:10] Jon was (almost) never scared during his mission. He felt comfortable on the space shuttle.

[13:33] How can going to space benefit the people on Earth? You will be surprised!

[17:28] Jon stresses the importance of taking advantage of education, the better you do in school the more opportunities will be available to you. The road to success is education.

[19:57] Dr. Jaime and Jon honor the loss of the crew aboard the space shuttle Challenger in it’s tragic last flight. Learn from other people’s mistakes.

[23:13] How do you go to the bathroom in space!?

[26:00] Questions from viewers, answers from Jon! Everything from aliens to publicity, to speed limits on the moon and to sleeping in space, to John’s favorite space memory, to food.

[47:20] Jon talks about his role models and the importance of finding a role model to emulate. He offers some additional life advice and wisdom.

[52:10] Follow Jon on Twitter @AstroMcBride and on Facebook @KennedySpaceCenterVisitorComplex. You can also check out the Summer of Mars, a free program for soon-to-be 5th graders to explore the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

[54:10] Jon leaves us with parting advice.

[54:28] Thank you for listening to The Dr. Jaime Show. I hope you enjoyed! Do me a favor and subscribe to my show on iTunes and YouTube. Every like and subscription helps me bring great content to you.

Mentioned in This Episode:

https://www.drjaimek.com

https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/summerofmars

@AstroMcBride

@KennedySpaceCenterVisitorComplex