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(SPRING 2021) Liftoff | Rebecca Swinney

Updated: Jan 20, 2022


“Okay. We are a go for liftoff,” The voice sounds over the loudspeakers in mission control.


People from all around the world, turned on their TVs, made the trip to Cape canaveral, tuned

into radios, in hopes of witnessing this historic moment.


The first people on mars.


Needless to say it was a historic moment for humankind, let alone, me.


I took a deep breath as I flicked switches, constantly conversing with mission control. Then there was a moment of silence before the countdown began.


Ten


I took a deep breath, in this heavy space suit and cramped conditions it wasn't ideal. I could feel

the weight on my shoulders and back as we prepared.


Nine


I look to my copilots as they also glance around, smiling but not reaching their eyes, the entire mission was dangerous but lift off especially.


Eight


Focus on what’s in front of you, switches and levers, switches and levers.


Seven


A three month journey to a planet untouched by humans thus far.


Six


The boosters had started up drowning out any hopes of peace and serenity.


Five


God, it was hard to think, hard to breathe even.


Four


People are watching.


Three


Two


One


“Liftoff.”


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1 Comment


Mary B Swinney
Mary B Swinney
May 26, 2021

You are such a good writer! Keep it up!

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