Question 1

What real-life NASA achievement did José Hernández accomplish that wasn't shown in the film?

Accepted Answer

While at LLL, Hernández worked on anti-ICBM missile defense and solved a problem that saved the project's funding. He was also a co-inventor of the digital mammogram, which he considers one of his greatest achievements for the lives saved.

Question 2

How did the real José Hernández make a cameo appearance in the film?

Accepted Answer

The actual José Hernández appears as STS-128 launch vehicle tech "USA 1," assisting Michael Peña (playing Hernández) entering Discovery and verifying the correct vehicle hatch seal.

Question 3

What surprising food item has been a staple on NASA space missions since the 1980s?

Accepted Answer

Texas-made tortillas have been going into space on NASA's shuttle and ISS menus since the 1980s. They're preferred over bread because they don't create crumbs that can clog atmospheric filters.

Question 4

What family business did José Hernández's wife Adela operate while he worked at NASA?

Accepted Answer

Adela Hernández realized her dream of owning and operating Tierra Luna Mexican Grill in Houston, located near JSC where José worked. José helped by waiting tables and washing dishes in his off hours.

Question 5

Which Apollo mission inspired José Hernández to become an astronaut?

Accepted Answer

José Hernández was inspired by watching Apollo 17's lunar module landing on December 11, 1972, particularly Mission Commander Eugene Cernan's lunar excursion. Apollo 17 was NASA's final mission to the moon.

A Million Miles Away

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