What Would You Take to the Moon? Writers Share Their Lunar Essentials
As Artemis II astronauts prepare for their lunar journey with wedding rings and maple syrup, a diverse panel of writers and thinkers reveals the personal and cultural items they would pack for a trip to the moon. From sentimental keepsakes to educational tools, these choices highlight the human connection to Earth even in the vastness of space.
Maggie Aderin: A Purple Cloth Alien from Her Daughter
Space scientist and CEO of Science Innovation Ltd, Maggie Aderin, would bring a little alien made by her daughter. Crafted from purple cloth on a loom for a GCSE textiles project, this creature symbolizes love and creativity. Aderin explains that taking it to the moon would mark the farthest point from Earth for this handmade treasure, bringing a smile as a reminder of familial bonds.
Sheila Hancock: Great Works to Educate and Inspire
Actor and writer Sheila Hancock prioritizes intellectual enrichment over personal possessions. She plans to pack the complete works of Shakespeare, War and Peace, and Mahler's symphonies conducted by Claudio Abbado. Hancock hopes these masterpieces will strengthen her mind and help her confront mortality, aiming to return as a more cultured individual.
Michael Akadiri: Nostalgic Cards and Nigerian Treats
Standup comedian and resident doctor Michael Akadiri would carry old birthday cards filled with heartfelt messages, a notepad for documenting space experiences, and puff-puff, a Nigerian donut. He jokes about keeping his personal trainer in the dark while enjoying these treats, emphasizing the blend of nostalgia and curiosity in his lunar packing list.
Michael Rosen: Tastes and Tokens of Home
Children's author Michael Rosen selects giant yellow Chilean raisins, an oval brown pebble from his childhood alley, and a blanket from his wife. These items represent favorite flavors, memories of youth, and comfort during illness, showcasing how simple objects can anchor us to Earthly experiences.
Athena Kugblenu: Practical Guides and Ghanaian Flavors
Writer and comedian Athena Kugblenu opts for Crocs for comfort, Carl Sagan's Contact as an alien encounter handbook, and shito sauce, a Ghanaian condiment. She humorously notes that introducing aliens to shito might simplify cultural exchanges, blending practicality with culinary pride.
Nels Abbey: Cynical Inspiration for Space Travel
Writer Nels Abbey, assuming conscription into space travel, would bring works by cynics like Gil Scott-Heron's Whitey on the Moon and Paul Mooney's standup routines. These pieces critique societal inequalities, offering a grounded perspective to maintain sanity amid the challenges of space exploration.
This panel's diverse selections underscore the emotional and intellectual layers of human life, even as we reach for the stars. Whether for comfort, education, or critique, these items reveal what truly matters when leaving Earth behind.
