Traveling in space, the data shows, can be a positive experience for participants, giving them a greater appreciation for people, nature and our tiny place in the universe.
In December, NASA put out a call for adventurers interested in interplanetary exploration. A vast pool of applications will be cut to 120 finalists, who will vie to become part of NASA’s next class of eight to 12 astronauts.
Watney's technical prowess enables him to tackle the practical problems of getting enough water, oxygen, and food. But perhaps the greatest hurdle he faces is psychological.
