Diary of an Apprentice Astronaut

Follow a female astronaut through every moment of her ascent as she trains for a mission to the International Space Station and discovers the wonders of life 250 miles above Earth

Samantha Cristoforetti spent over half a year on the International Space Station for the European Space Agency (ESA), following her lifelong dream in zero-G. But her story begins long before—and she invites readers to experience every step of her journey to the ISS as fellow “apprentice astronauts.”

With endless wonder and curiosity, Cristoforetti explores the Earth-side world of spaceship simulators and underwater spacewalk practice, then boards a rocket for eight minutes of wild ascent into orbit. When she finally reaches her destination, she discovers the joys and challenges of life in space, from her sublime first view of Earth to practical concerns like mastering the art of floating. How do you get your bearings when there’s no up or down? What’s it like to shower in space? And what insights can you gain from 248 miles above our planet?

This is an inspiring, surprisingly down-to-earth story about having the dedication to go after your dream.