They’re one of the most exclusive groups on earth: The ones who have seen our planet as a whole. Sunita Williams, a Nasa astronaut of part-Indian descent, what it feels like
What is take-off like?
There’s something called “the twang”, when the main engines light, and you are not over your centre of gravity, six seconds before lift off. It’s invigorating and fun; you feel like you are at the top of a rollercoaster. It’s first bumpy then smooth, and then you feel acceleration towards thinner parts of the atmosphere. After eight-and-a-half minutes, your arms start floating.
(This story appears in the 28 August, 2009 issue of Forbes India. To visit our Archives, click here.)