Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield found himself pondering his next steps upon returning to Earth following his third space mission. Reflecting on the experience, Hadfield likened it to a rebirth, prompting him to contemplate his future endeavors and aspirations. Transitioning from astronaut to author, Hadfield fulfilled his dream of writing by penning a variety of works, including nonfiction, children’s books, and a series of fast-paced thrillers known as The Apollo Murders series.
The latest addition to this series, “Final Orbit,” is set in 1975 amidst the Cold War space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. Hadfield delved into the intricacies of his shift from space exploration to storytelling during a conversation with Mattea Roach on Bookends. He shared insights into the real-life events and research that inform his fictional narratives.
Hadfield’s passion for writing stemmed from his early academic years, where he excelled in language studies and creative writing. Despite this passion, he recognized that pursuing an English literature degree might impede his ambitions of space command. Consequently, he postponed his writing aspirations until after his astronautical pursuits.
In discussing “Final Orbit,” Hadfield shed light on the historical context of the joint U.S.-Soviet mission in July 1975. He elaborated on the behind-the-scenes negotiations and technical challenges faced by both nations to achieve the successful docking of the Soyuz and Apollo spacecraft. The mission symbolized a beacon of hope during a tumultuous period of geopolitical tensions.
The series’ recurring character, Kaz Zemeckis, drew inspiration from real-life aviation incidents experienced by Hadfield and a friend. Hadfield recounted a harrowing encounter with a seagull during a high-speed flight test, while his friend suffered a bird strike that cost him an eye. These personal experiences influenced the character development of Kaz, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Hadfield’s journey from space exploration to literary pursuits underscores his multifaceted talents and dedication to storytelling. As he continues to captivate readers with his gripping narratives, his unique blend of real-world experiences and imaginative storytelling sets his works apart in the realm of science fiction literature.