What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Chris Hadfield, a former Canadian astronaut, has released a new alt-history space thriller titled 'Final Orbit'. The novel is set against the backdrop of a historical space mission where US astronauts and Soviet Union cosmonauts met for a ceremonial handshake over 50 years ago. Hadfield's story introduces an accident that results in the death of half the crew, while reviving the cancelled 1960s Shuguang space program to place the first Chinese astronaut in orbit decades earlier than reality. The narrative unfolds into a clandestine three-way space conflict, offering a realistic depiction of a battle between spacecraft. Hadfield combines fact, fiction, and his personal experiences in orbit to create a technically detailed and entertaining novel.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'Final Orbit' is significant as it blends historical events with fictional elements, providing readers with a unique perspective on space exploration and international relations during the Cold War era. Hadfield's novel may appeal to enthusiasts of space history and science fiction, offering insights into the complexities of space missions and geopolitical dynamics. The book's technical details and narrative style could influence the genre, setting a benchmark for realistic depictions of space conflicts. Additionally, it highlights the potential of alt-history narratives to explore 'what-if' scenarios, enriching the understanding of historical events and their possible outcomes.
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