Description
Book Synopsis Looking up at the stars at the age of ten, John Casper dreamed of being a space explorer. The Sky Above tells how persistence and determination led to flying in space, after serving the nation as a combat fighter pilot and test pilot. Despite life-threatening experiences and failures, his spiritual faith was pivotal in overcoming life's challenges.
Through vivid storytelling, the reader rides alongside the author in the cockpit, feeling the fear of enemy antiaircraft fire and the pressure of high g-forces during combat maneuvering. His insider accounts of four Space Shuttle missions vividly describe exhilarating launches, the magical experience of weightlessness, and the magnificent beauty of Earth from hundreds of miles above.
A central theme running throughout Casper's life is his faith, as he struggles with the loss of fellow pilots and confronts life's inconsistencies and disappointments. This is a story about his growth and trust in his Creator, whose tenacious spirit never left him, even during the devastating Challenger and Columbia disasters.
Readers interested in stories of true adventure or overcoming adversity will discover unique drama and insight. Those trying to reach their dreams, whatever they are, will find inspiration; those unsure or challenged in their faith will find encouragement.
Table of Contents
- Part I
- 1. A Lesson in Courage
- 2. My Crazy Dream
- 3. First Adventures
- 4. Ramblin' Wrecks, Falcons, and Boilermakers
- Part II
- 5. Tweets, Talons, and Super Sabres
- 6. Combat with the Lucky Devils
- 7. Cold War Fighter Pilot
- 8. Experimental Test Pilot
- 9. Life in the Puzzle Palace
- Part III
- 10. Challenger and Return to Flight
- 11. Space Shuttle Rookie
- 12. Space Shuttle Commander
- 13. Microgravity Lab
- 14. Saving the Space Station
- 15. A Four-Rendezvous Flight
- Part IV
- 16. Safety Director
- 17. The Unthinkable Happens
- 18. Return to Flight . . . Again
- 19. First Test Flight of Orion
- Acknowledgments
- Appendix: Aircraft and Spacecraft Flown
- Glossary
- Notes
- Bibliography
- About the Author
