Leland Melvin: An astronaut's story of curiosity, perspective and change

Leland Melvin shares his journey from a childhood in Lynchburg, Virginia, to becoming a NASA astronaut. He reflects on the impact of early influences, overcoming trauma, and the transformative experience of space travel. Melvin emphasizes the importance of perspective, unity, and sharing personal stories to heal and inspire others.

What event in 1969 had a significant impact on Leland Melvin's childhood?

• The moon landing by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin

• The first African American astronaut in space

• The invention of the television

• The launch of the first space shuttle

Who was the local figure that inspired Leland Melvin during his childhood?

• Arthur Ashe

• Buzz Aldrin

• John Glenn

• Neil Armstrong

What did Leland's father convert into a camper for family trips?

• A school bus

• A bread truck

• A van

• A pickup truck

What did Leland Melvin's mother give him that sparked his interest in chemistry?

• A physics book

• A telescope

• A chemistry set

• A microscope

What career did Leland Melvin pursue after his football career was cut short?

• A teacher

• A chemist

• A NASA engineer

• A musician

What was Leland Melvin's primary mission during his space shuttle flight?

• Launching a satellite

• Installing the Columbus laboratory

• Conducting spacewalks

• Repairing the Hubble telescope

What did Leland Melvin find most striking about the view of Earth from space?

• The colors of the Caribbean

• The size of the continents

• The vastness of the oceans

• The brightness of the cities

What activity did Leland Melvin and his fellow astronauts do while listening to music in space?

• Watching movies

• Exercising

• Conducting experiments

• Breaking bread together

What does Leland Melvin emphasize as important for healing and community building?

• Scientific research

• Storytelling

• Physical fitness

• Cultural exchange

What does Leland Melvin believe is crucial for achieving unity among people?

• Political reform

• Technological advancement

• Economic growth

• Perspective shift