What it means

hello World!
Today I bring to you this article about what it means to be an astronaut
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-nasa-astronaut-in-the-celebrity-space-age-of-elon-musk-and-richard-branson/ar-AAyGRNm?li=BBnb7Kz
It is an interesting reflection of how times have changed, from the days of leaping into the unknown and gaining celebrity status to the new norms where being an astronaut may hold less status in the public celebrity sphere. While it may seem counterintuitive it shows what the new normals are to a degree. It is exciting that the youth of today have grown up with people living in space their entire lives! I remember meeting my first astronaut and being a bit star struck, as my career progressed I met and worked with many space farers. What we have in common is so much than any difference. They tell me is is their job, like anyone else. I hope the rock stars of tomorrow normalize space and our role in it even more, where no one is excluded from the belief that to be a cosmonaut is achievable, worthy, and worth celebrating.
I think either time frame you look at, astronauts are out of this world!
:)