The Astronaut Maker

In The Astronaut Maker, listeners delve into the enigmatic life of George W. S. Abbey, a pivotal figure in NASA's history known for his secretive and powerful influence on human spaceflight. Spanning his remarkable 37-year career—from a young pilot and aspiring astronaut to the director of the Johnson Space Center—Abbey's story reveals his crucial role in astronaut selection, his presence during pivotal moments like the Apollo 1 tragedy and the Apollo 13 recovery, and his efforts to diversify the astronaut corps. Coauthored by a seasoned writer of astronaut memoirs, this audiobook offers a comprehensive insider's perspective on the intersection of ambition and politics within NASA.