After completing three space missions, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield pondered his next steps upon returning to Earth. Describing the experience as akin to being reborn, Hadfield reflected on his journey and the questions it raised during an interview on “Bookends with Mattea Roach.”
Transitioning from astronaut to author, Hadfield embarked on a literary path, crafting various works including nonfiction, children’s books, and a series of fast-paced thrillers inspired by his space adventures, known as The Apollo Murders series. The latest installment, “Final Orbit,” is set in 1975 during the Cold War era space race between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Discussing his passion for writing, Hadfield explained that his interest in language and storytelling stemmed from an early age, with a desire to share ideas through the written word. Despite his inclination towards writing, Hadfield had prioritized his career as an astronaut, recognizing the limitations an English literature degree might pose to his spacefaring aspirations.
The plot of “Final Orbit” delves into a joint mission between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, highlighting the complex negotiations and technical challenges involved in docking two spacecraft with incompatible systems. Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, the successful docking of the Soyuz and Apollo spacecraft in July 1975 symbolized a beacon of hope amidst darkness.
The series’ recurring character, Kaz Zemeckis, draws inspiration from real-life aviation incidents, including an encounter with a bird during a high-speed flight test. Hadfield recounted his own close call with a seagull while flying at 550 knots, paralleling a friend’s harrowing experience of losing an eye to a bird strike mid-flight. These personal accounts informed the character development of Kaz, adding depth to the narrative of the series.
Reflecting on the interview, the conversation between Hadfield and Roach underscored the parallels between Hadfield’s space exploits and his literary endeavors, showcasing the interplay of real-life experiences and fictional storytelling.