Finally, we, as humanity, have severed the chains of gravity that bound us to Earth. At long last, we have emerged from our cradle and embarked on the journey to explore and inhabit the near-infinite universe that surrounds us. This monumental achievement is the culmination of 4.5 billion years of evolution. We have come to realize that we no longer venture into the cosmos as individual humans; instead, we traverse the great expanse as "The Human" - a single, unified race known as the Human Race. Therefore, whenever a human launches from any corner of Earth, they deserve equal recognition and gratitude.
Please understand that what you are about to read is not a work of fiction; it is more exhilarating than that. It delves into the realm of what is real and everlasting, something that will continue to captivate our collective aspirations and passions far into the future.
Throughout this incredible journey, individuals from all walks of life have stepped forward, competing for the limited seats aboard spacecraft, undergoing rigorous training, and ultimately, venturing into the cosmos. An Astronaut or Cosmonaut, much like any individual on Earth, may carry multiple identities based on nationality, race, gender, ethnic origin, language, beliefs, wealth, body size, type, and capabilities. Yet, irrespective of these attributes, two unwavering requirements persist: the ability to cooperate and an unwavering determination to succeed.
"SPACE-Ever Further, Ever Faster-Now!" is a captivating account of Humanity's Greatest Adventure, penned by yours truly, an astronaut who played a pivotal role in our early space endeavors. I had the privilege of embarking on a mission with two exceptional crewmates aboard Skylab III, setting world and American records, and I have remained deeply involved in space programs for many years since.
In the United States, our foray into space was driven not only by the realization of the monumental leap we were taking but also by the practical necessity of outpacing international competition spurred by the Soviet Sputnik, which passed directly overhead. Our proactive response began with the Mercury and Gemini Projects, culminating in numerous Moon landings, the Skylab mission, the Space Shuttle program, and the International Space Station. Currently, we stand on the threshold of human exploration of Mars and exoplanets beyond our Solar System, ventures that have recently commenced via remote exploration.
Our ambitions extend far into the future, but our achievements thus far have been small steps in the grand scheme of things. Indeed, we have dipped our toes into the waters, but as we strive to wade a little deeper, we gaze upward, beholding the endless ocean of space before us - a boundless realm brimming with excitement, opportunities, challenges, and rewards that beckon to us all.
The time has come. Let us forge ahead with unwavering determination!