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Failure IS An Option
From Apollo to Artemis offers readers a firsthand account of your half-century spent at NASA, chronicling everything from the Apollo missions to the Artemis program. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was an important book for me to write only in the sense that it made my friends and family happy. They had been encouraging (begging?) me to tell the stories from my NASA career for the past 10 or 12 years and they finally convinced me to do it. I didn’t write the book for money or fame. My hope is that it might inspire someone to “reach for the stars” even if they’re unsure they will get there.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As I mention in the Introduction of my book, “Failure is not an option” is a fine slogan if you’re working to safely return 3 astronauts to Earth against great odds in a severely damaged spacecraft (Apollo 13). But in everyday life, failure should be a requirement. I believe in the adage that “If you’re not failing occasionally, you’re not trying hard enough.” I shared the idea that you should not let the fear of failure prevent you from doing what you really want to do in life.
How did you decide what to include and leave out in your memoir?
For the most part, I left my family out of the book, since they are very private individuals – hence, the book was written as a memoir about my life with NASA and is not an autobiography. I also had a goal of not sharing secrets that I shouldn’t be sharing and not being overly critical of people I encountered throughout my career. While I did write about the tragedies NASA has experienced over my lifetime, I wanted the book to be mostly lighthearted and positive.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part was wanting desperately to provide accurate details and information on what I was writing about, knowing that many NASA friends and colleagues, who in many cases were part of the stories, would be reading them with a critical eye. The most rewarding thing for me is knowing that my two sons will have a record of the many events and activities I was privileged to participate in over my career with NASA, which they were too young to understand as they were growing up.
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From the Apollo missions to the groundbreaking Artemis program that aims to return humanity to the lunar surface, this book chronicles the evolution of NASA through the eyes of someone who lived it. With vivid recollections, the author shares behind-the-scenes stories of the triumphs and tragedies that helped shape the course of space exploration.
Whether you’re a space enthusiast, a history buff, or someone fascinated by the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of the unknown, From Apollo to Artemis provides an insider’s perspective on NASA’s most ambitious endeavors. The author’s personal anecdotes, combined with historical context, create a rich narrative that captures the excitement, dedication, and innovation that define NASA.
From Apollo To Artemis: Stories From My 50 Years With NASA
Herb Baker’s From Apollo to Artemis offers a firsthand account of a half-century spent at NASA, chronicling everything from the Apollo missions to the Artemis program. Baker shares a unique perspective as someone who worked in the business and procurement side of NASA rather than as an astronaut or engineer. This book is a mosaic of personal anecdotes, historical moments, and behind-the-scenes stories that focus on people rather than just technology, giving it a refreshing and approachable feel.
Baker’s storytelling is charming and very detailed. I found his recollections of working with the news media during the Apollo 11 mission captivating, especially his trips to deliver film reels for broadcast during one of humanity’s greatest achievements. His enthusiasm and awe come through vividly, like when he recalls watching the Moon landing in a cramped TV studio and being swept up in the excitement of the era. These moments made me feel like I was right there with him. Some passages, such as his account of local sports rosters, felt less essential to the otherwise compelling narrative.
Baker’s admiration for his colleagues shines, particularly when recounting how teamwork brought the Apollo 13 crew home. The anecdote about the broken circuit breaker, fixed with a felt-tipped pen, highlights the ingenuity and grit that define NASA. I would have appreciated a more balanced discussion of NASA’s setbacks, including funding challenges or moments of public criticism. Baker’s unwavering optimism is admirable and occasionally makes the book feel more like a tribute than a memoir.
One of my favorite sections discusses Baker’s transition to supporting the Artemis program. His passion for inspiring future generations is evident, especially as he weaves in advice for young professionals dreaming of joining the space industry. I was particularly struck by his admiration for the perseverance of NASA teams who overcame early failures, echoing his father’s life lesson about the importance of sticking one’s neck out.
From Apollo to Artemis is a heartfelt journey through NASA’s history. It is perfect for readers who enjoy personal, behind-the-scenes stories and who want a sense of what it was like to be a part of NASA’s extended family. This book will resonate most with space enthusiasts, history buffs, and aspiring professionals looking for inspiration. Herb Baker’s warmth and humility make this an enjoyable read, even if you’re not a hardcore space fan.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0DKD7XMTM
LITERARY TITAN 