What Would You Take to the Moon? Writers Reveal Their Cosmic Essentials
As Artemis II astronauts prepare for their historic lunar mission, packing personal items like wedding rings and maple syrup, a panel of writers imagines what they would bring to the moon. From sentimental tokens to cultural treasures, their choices offer a glimpse into the human side of space exploration.
Maggie Aderin: A Purple Cloth Alien from Her Daughter
Space scientist Maggie Aderin would take a little alien creature made by her daughter, who is studying textiles for GCSE. Crafted from purple cloth on a loom, this item symbolizes love and creativity. Aderin cherishes it as a reminder of her daughter's affection, noting that the moon would be the furthest point from Earth for this handmade treasure.
Sheila Hancock: Great Works to Strengthen the Mind
Actor and writer Sheila Hancock plans to use a moon trip for self-education, aiming to return as a more cultured individual. She would pack the complete works of Shakespeare, War and Peace, and Mahler's symphonies conducted by Claudio Abbado. Hancock believes these works will help her confront mortality and enhance her cognitive abilities.
Michael Akadiri: Nostalgic Items for Reflection
Standup comedian and doctor Michael Akadiri would bring old birthday cards filled with loving messages, an old-school notepad to document his thoughts, and puff-puff, a Nigerian donut. He sees the journey as an opportunity to reminisce and ponder questions like whether calories count in space.
Michael Rosen: Personal Tokens for Comfort
Children's author Michael Rosen would pack giant yellow Chilean raisins, an oval brown pebble from his childhood alley, and a blanket from his wife. These items represent favourite tastes, memories of his past, and warmth during his recovery from coronavirus, providing comfort in the lunar environment.
Athena Kugblenu: Practical and Cultural Picks
Writer and comedian Athena Kugblenu opts for Crocs for comfort, Carl Sagan's Contact as a guide for alien encounters, and shito sauce, a Ghanaian condiment. She hopes to introduce extraterrestrials to shito before they learn English profanity, simplifying future interactions.
Nels Abbey: Cynical Inspiration for Sanity
Writer Nels Abbey would take Gil Scott-Heron's Whitey on the Moon and Paul Mooney's standup routines on race and space. He views a moon mission as a conscription, using these works to maintain sanity and reflect on societal inequalities, humorously speculating on why he might be sent.
This diverse panel highlights how personal and cultural items can provide solace, inspiration, and connection during the isolation of space travel, echoing the human stories behind scientific endeavours.
