'See you in zero-G'

CB , Houston, TX — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 17:44:28 GMT

You are a 'singular' man, Dr. Hawking. I wish you the best of luck, and hope others will follow your lead.

'See you in zero-G'

Pete Finley, bloomington, Il — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 18:20:51 GMT

I think the man is very brave, and I hope that his experience is fulfilling. Come home safe and inspired!!

'See you in zero-G'

Carlos Asfora, The Hague, The Netherlands — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:06:53 GMT

Hawking's daredevil achievement is well-timed: who doesn't fear presently for the next generations in these crazy times of undisputed climate change? Wheelchair-bound or in zero-gravity, he is a role model, a worldwide best-seller and a genius, and everybody listens to him. Let's just hope future space settlers will be wiser than the world's present greedy and shortsighted leaders. Well done, man!

'See you in zero-G'

Rod Irwin, Gainesville, Fl 32605 — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:11:13 GMT

This couldn't happen to a more deserving individual -- you have done so much for science and encouraged so many of us novices to enjoy science with your writings.

'See you in zero-G'

Michelle Quaife, Ladysmith, BC, Canada — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:14:22 GMT

I'm a little confused with Stephens reasons for doing this flight. He's using excuses to justify using more fossil fuels and contributing to global warming by more or less saying earths done for so lets move on to the next environment that we can destroy. When do we learn from our mistakes or at least change what we are doing. I am not supporting this "adventure" and would like to know how others feel about this.

'See you in zero-G'

Jan Kinney, West Palm Beach, FL — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:18:42 GMT

I agree! It's time to get some eggs in another basket before the human race becomes extinct through hubris, apathy, or fear. If something big enough comes along, we need to be ready or we'll be toast!

Now if I can fit bacon into this metaphor, we'll have breakfast...

Thanks to Stephen Hawking for setting an example... I hope he had fun!

'See you in zero-G'

Mary G, Tucson, AZ — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:21:56 GMT

Bravo Mr. Hawking! You are a true modern day hero and explorer. The world needs more people like yourself.

'See you in zero-G'

Gary,Peachtree City,GA. — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:23:06 GMT

Outstanding Dr. Hawking. You have courage to match your genius.

'See you in zero-G'

Chris Eldridge, Harrisburg PA — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:28:51 GMT

My hat is off to him for a very touching statement! I think we all need to take the fate of our world more seriously. This is not a game. Our haphazard lifestyle has let slip a very real potential to secure a much better and yet less harmful life for all with a little something called effort. As many of you may already know, I agree with the eventual colonization of other worlds, moons, and space cities but I feel that Hawking may be a bit premature. Such solutions may be hundreds of years away before any meaningful self-sufficient colonies are fully established and that hardly accounts for all the rest of humanity stuck here. If we are going to agree with Hawking that these are indeed dangers to prevent and avert that we also need much more realistic solutions that can be implemented far faster.

As you just heard me say, the head of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists (the keepers of the Doomsday Clock) only gave the world a 50% chance of survival this century due to war, ecological collapse, climate change, disease, and terrorism as rampant as computer viruses. With this in mind, I feel that we CANNOT afford to only address one of these potential problems at a time. Preparations for any disaster are often good for any other type of disaster and living efficiently and SELF-SUFFICIENCY on a very local level are the most important keys TO ALL of them!

Producing our own power, food, clothing, and basic tools within EVERY community would in effect insulate us from nearly ANYTHING. The further establishment of secure seed banks, asteroid defenses, the complete and exhaustive documentation of our technology for reproduction after some future worldwide catastrophe, and the general (though not complete) avoidance of nuclear power which have reactors that cannot be maintained during more extreme times of pandemics or economic collapse, are – to me – other such measures for long term survival. Product standardization and opting for smaller more numerous cities with a consolidated and more secure infrastructure are other such optional measure.

'See you in zero-G'

Michael — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:45:45 GMT

I don't have many people I look up to... actually, I don't have any. Except this guy. I can't think of anyone who could hold a candle to this man.

'See you in zero-G'

Hollis M. Newport Beach, CA — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 22:04:26 GMT

That is very cool!! Not only is Stephen Hawking a brilliant messenger of knowledge to help the people on this planet but he is a class act all the way. I'm so happy that he was able to have this experience. I wish him many more!

'See you in zero-G'

Moira — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 22:11:10 GMT

I'm so happy for Mr. Hawking. Four decades of being wheelchair-bound, I can't even imagine what sheer joy this type of freedom will give him. Couldn't happen to a more deserving man.

'See you in zero-G'

Henry H. Chamberlain — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 22:25:59 GMT

Bravo Dr. Hawking. The fundraising was commendable. Your big grin said a lot about your trip. All the best,

'See you in zero-G'

william phipps — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 22:57:57 GMT

I think this is wonderful. hope seven had the time of his life. would love to know his just what it felt like. was it more or less what he expected??

'See you in zero-G'

Alex, Santa Fe, NM — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:10:33 GMT

If anyone ever deserved to go into space, it is Stephen Hawking.

'See you in zero-G'

Amy, Westerville, Ohio — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:27:45 GMT

Mr. Hawking, you are an inspiration. I am so happy for you. It must have been an amazing experience.

'See you in zero-G'

Christopher Crowe, Pittsburg, Kansas — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:30:00 GMT

Stephen Hawkin, You are the man among all men. May every wish you have be grantd to you with the same inspirational graditude that you felt during your flight with zero gravity. You knwoledge and understanding has lifted each of us above and beyond. Thank you for so many years of dedication to a worthy cause.

'See you in zero-G'

Xana Lyoko East Boston Ma — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:34:47 GMT

This Is Some cool Article About floating in 0 gravity and stuff I wish Icould be there. I would give it a google thumbs up!

'See you in zero-G'

Margie Garland — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:48:39 GMT

What a marvelous experience for this great man.

'See you in zero-G'

Carol K-F, Upland, CA — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 23:51:16 GMT

Very cool. Hawking is a personal hero of mine and I love the thought of him being "free" of his body for a few minutes.

'See you in zero-G'

Veronique Bond, Auckland, New Zealand — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:19 GMT

I believe that such an enterprise from such a great man is leading to a better understanding of what the human race is capable of. My 9 year old son finds him to be an inspiration, and I share in his feeling.Good on you Mr Hawking! All the best on your voyage.

'See you in zero-G'

Jim Courtright, Venice, FL — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:47:59 GMT

What an amazing and uplifting [no pun intended...] story!! Well done.

'See you in zero-G'

d.c. sanford, maine — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:27:19 GMT

It's great to see so many people helping a brilliant scientist that is so physically handicapped experience first hand wieghtlessness. Go stephan hawking! He has freely given so much of himself to to the world, it is good to see him recieving.

'See you in zero-G'

Eire Ann, Memphis, Michigan — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 01:58:39 GMT

Way to go, Steven, way to go! You sure have earned this ...

'See you in zero-G'

sue r mt vernon, illinois — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:06:55 GMT

I hope we are not spending federal money to put just anyone who wants to go up in space - up in space.

'See you in zero-G'

Glenda Hammond 11774 Ft loudon Rd Mercersburg Pa 17236 — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:08:06 GMT

I just ! think it's Great !.........>>>>>>Steven..(Space) It's Up To Us and the great minds ...and the Dreamers..Ok I can't say I even finished the 10th grade . Man ..Now I'm 43 and All I wish is that I had a mind . I dream of the stars and by that I mean up above ..Not TV .I love space . I would go in a heart beat ! I have childern..My Son asked if you could ? would you ? I asked him and then My Girls Would you? No! But as long as I can remember ..And can look up I wished apone star ..It did happen once when I met Eric R Hammond I just say this also because He would go !!And I would wish him all .But to see space !!!!!! I'm there ..I Love our Country But Every Day It looks smaller& smaller , I would love to take my who family away ..But there is no where to go..But Up. Glenda hammond 11774 Ft Loudon Rd Mercersburg Pa 17236. I hope you understand,

'See you in zero-G'

Glenda Hammond 11774 Ft loudon Rd Mercersburg Pa 17236 — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:12:11 GMT

Fly " High !!!!!!!!!!Steven

'See you in zero-G'

Dave Williams — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:37:41 GMT

I can think of no human more deserving of space flight than Hawking. Zero-G environments may prove to be the future of physical rehabilitation. Who would have predicted our current technology a mere century ago? Anything is possible...

'See you in zero-G'

Jim Dunn, Carmel Valley California — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:37:55 GMT

Bravo! A brilliant mind such as Mr. Hawking's that has been thinking outside the box for so long definitely should travel outside the box.

'See you in zero-G'

John — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:41:21 GMT

To Sue R, Mt Vernon, Il Steven Hawking is not "just anyone". We put John Glenn back up in a space shuttle, he was in his 70's at the time, and his age helped to advance our knowledge of the effects of space on "just anyone" Steven Hawking has done wonderful things for mankind, his thinking and foresight will be up there with Einstein, so why not indulge him with what is a relatively simple wish, and, he was helping charities in the process. Get to know a person's accomplishments before criticizing the person.

'See you in zero-G'

Jim Martin — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:48:58 GMT

You are a great example of what hope and determination can do. Awesome Steve!!!

'See you in zero-G'

Kim B, Colorado Springs, CO — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 02:58:26 GMT

Since the day I saw my first space flight on TV, I have longed for the day when I would "slip the surly bonds of earth" and head for the moon. I assumed we would one day all go with as little care as heading for Hawaii or New Zealand. That we do not is the source of great disappointment to me. That Steven Hawking did a zero-g flight is terrific and gives me hope that we are closer to space travel as the norm.

'See you in zero-G'

Brett A Yount, Seattle, Washington — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:09:15 GMT

Michelle Quaife, so, from what you have posted, it would seem that you believe we should not do anything for the lack of a better fuel source. I do not believe in fossil fuels; however, that is what we have for the present time. Maybe, if private business gets into the space race, we will see an improvement in rocket fuel—maybe a change in propulsion engines all together. God only knows, private business is what propels scientific advancement in most areas and if you don't believe that, you are living under a rock. In order for business to care, there has to be a demand. Mr. Hawking is creating that demand by showing that space flight is a viable option. Until such time as we have a better fuel source, we need to make do with what we have.

'See you in zero-G'

Cathy Miller, Tampa, Florida — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:21:20 GMT

Mr Hawkins is a brilliant person, a person of great insight. And, he also, is just a man who has been able to live this long because of our technology, but also has had to live trapped in a body that can do little. I am so happy to hear that he has done this and it was something that was possible to do because of great people before him, who had the ideas and insight of those things possible in this world. Just think of what Mr. Hawkins looked like when he was six. This is like "Make a wish" He could have done it sooner. I don't know why he waited this long. Hope you had a great Zero-G Mr. Hawkins. Cathy Miller

'See you in zero-G'

Anne W. Orlando, Florida — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:21:22 GMT

I have always been inspired by Steven Hawking. He is a brilliant scientist, but he is also funny, charming and yes, even charismatic! He has contributed so much to our world. I am thrilled for his ability to experience this opportunity, and just like him, he didn't do it just for his own ends, but raised money for some very worthy causes. I am very happy for him.

'See you in zero-G'

bill Bradley — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:24:40 GMT

Dr. Hawking, Bravo. And to cop a line "Such A Brief Moment in Time" But what an eternal moment for you and all of "us"

'See you in zero-G'

Bill, Fort Lauderdale, Fl — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:28:17 GMT

To Sue R, Mt Vernon. I don't think I can reply any better to your blog than John did. Except that I think this,if it were a federal expenditure, is probably just a drop in the bucket compared to all the pork barrel spending that goes on in Washington. Further, it would be money well spent if it successfully raises awareness and funds for the charities he is supporting. Finally, the money spent is coming I presume from federal taxes that everybody pays. You do pay your fair share don't you?

'See you in zero-G'

Tracy R, Westminster, California — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:37:13 GMT

Steven Hawking has spent a life fighting hardships most people would have given up on from the start. And through it all his brillance contributed to man kind's knowledge of our 'speck' of a planet and the vastness of our universe. Except for the couple of 'near-sighted' people who can't see past their own small world, I applaud and agree whole heartedly with everyone who wishes Mr. Hawking God Speed in living a dream...even if only for a few moments!

'See you in zero-G'

s.y, honolulu, hawaii — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:47:40 GMT

I hope this exciting experience that you learned will gather your thoughts about future explorations and idea's. Our children needs you and all other to keep humanity alive. Thank you S.Y

'See you in zero-G'

Bill Fort Lauderdale, Fl — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:47:51 GMT

To Michelle Quaife, Ladysmith, BC, Canada You're confused? Frankly your blog confuses me. I don't think that you are reading into his comment the right way. The way I see it he is saying that that if we do not start to make an exerted effort to control the causes of global warming, nuclear capabilities in the hands of radicals and the nuts that try to create genetic viruses, then we are on a fast track to self annihilation.

'See you in zero-G'

daisy — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:48:43 GMT

i think it is great that ( everyone ) get a CHANCE ,,, to see and feel and the wonder of life ,,, i really think it should be open to everyone ,,but i do understand the money of everything ,,,, i'm just saying ,,,( the young the old the ones that look at it all with (( aaaaaaaaahhhhh))) i will not say i get it or understand it but (AHHHHHHH 0

'See you in zero-G'

Eric H, Rayong, Thailand — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 03:59:19 GMT

to Michelle Quaife:
[...] Don't judge or criticize anyone's choice of how they use fossile fuels, until YOU no longer use electricity in your life unless NONE of it comes from fossile fuels (virtually impossible considering how the Grid works), YOU STOP USING all forms of transportation that rely on fossile fuels (oil, gasoline, natural gas, electricity from oil or coal), YOU STOP USING ANY KIND OF MANUFACTURED PRODUCT that is made from fossile fuels, or with the aid of them in the manufacturing process. There is not a fine line between what YOU judge to be necessary uses versus frivolous ones. [...]

'See you in zero-G'

Gene Graves, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:03:24 GMT

I very much agree with Mr. Hawking. If we don't get off this island called Earth, we're going to be committing suicide... or at least preparing our descendants for a world of chaos, disease, and suffering. They would hate us for sure. On the other hand, Michelle Q., you have presented a key point- we won't get anywhere if the human race doesn't have some serious mental and moral evolution. Otherwise, we'll just jump from one planet to the next, infecting one world at a time, like some virus or bacteria. We must learn from our mistakes. Oh, and alternative energy all the way! There's got to be something extremely powerful, extremely reusable/recyclable, and extremely harmless out there...

'See you in zero-G'

Marty Ross San Antonio, Texas — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:06:44 GMT

Dr. Hawking- My brother Paul always respected you and your writings so very much. He was fascinated by your abilities and genius. He would be so very happy that you had this opportunity. He took his own "zero gravity flight" in October of 2005, but I know he must be grinning from ear to ear in Heaven, as he learned of your flight. Congratulations for taking that step for so many who can/could not. May God bless you in all you do...

'See you in zero-G'

Nicholas Dorosheff, Herndon, VA — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:31:33 GMT

Go, Steven, go! You know the rules better than most: we are the slime and the sublime; this is our home and our tomb.

'See you in zero-G'

simon,california — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:57:05 GMT

maybe he does have the right idea. he is smart and cant figure out the answers to the problems he named for the earth. maybe we should all run away!

'See you in zero-G'

Charles Meiris, Ewing. NJ — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 05:06:58 GMT

Everyone is excited, as I am, about this great man fulfilling his wish. He has focused on our search for a scientific understanding of our universe for many years. He has also proved that there is a true difference between external physical appearance and internal workings of a free mind. I had a personal experience with my own nephew who everyone believed had no mind because he had no working body. I taught him to read that few thought he would ever do.

But, my actual point that started this missive goes back to something another great scientist, Carl Sagan said years ago. To paraphrase: if we are so concerned about our children's weak performance in Math and Science, why does every newspaper in the country publish an Astrology section every day, but a Math or Science (Astronomy) section only once a week at most? How about a daily article by Stephen?

'See you in zero-G'

John Novak — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 05:19:10 GMT

Mr. Hawking, you have responded with dignity and patience to criticism from many and now you inspire us to take action and have hope which now is so necessary for human survival. Thanks!

'See you in zero-G'

Dale S. — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 05:47:40 GMT

Good on you, Steven! Those of us fortunate enough to be haelthy take for granted the things we can do. Steven Hawking got to take the thrill ride of a lifetime. Every time I ride a roller coaster I will think of him and be grateful.Great publicity for space travel, excellent charity fundraising and a special treat for a brilliant scientist. A good day all around.

'See you in zero-G'

Jason Castelli, Huntington Beach, California — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:12:25 GMT

Dr. Hawking, for all that you have done in the name of science, my congratulations. The best of luck to you, I hope it is all you expect it to be and more. This is a well deserved and great endeavor.

'See you in zero-G'

Tony S., Houston, TX — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:13:05 GMT

Stephen, you just made my day! You have inspired me with your life story and your research on black holes and cosmology. And now you've realized your dream of zero-G flight. You have both raised awareness of space flight and contributed to charities; what a winner! Now, if only the rest of us could find you a cure for your motor neuron disease sooner rather than later...

'See you in zero-G'

Barbara M. San Antonio TX — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:18:35 GMT

To Sue R, Professor Hawking is one of the smartest humans on the planet and has been wheel chair bound for 40 years. He deserves this ride. AND The Zero Gravity Corp gave the flight to Professor Hawking for free...your money is safe.

'See you in zero-G'

Hasan Mahmud, Dhaka, Bangladesh. — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 06:45:17 GMT

i feel not alone find you being besides us...go ahead Steven Hawking...i am sure you will find the next door soon!

'See you in zero-G'

W.Konecny, Melbourne, Florida — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 07:33:32 GMT

Dear Dr. Hawking, I first would like to congratulate you on your flight, YOU have made history today. I am sure that Isaac Barrow as well as Isaac Newton are looking down in amasement at the increasing vast conributions that you are providing to humanity. I have followed your career and have learned a lot from your teachings. However, I can certainly say that generations from now....when our grandchildrens, children are being taught. They will learn about a brief history in time when you took a short trip and showed that one need not lose hope. Stay well, see you in the stars.

'See you in zero-G'

Ketan Mumbai, India — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:52:28 GMT

Dr Hawking - Sir! You are indeed an inspiration for present and future generations across the globe.How we wish there were many more of us who could use our grey cells , the way you have. It is a pity that while the likes of you strive in pursuit of scientific progress, more than 90% of humankind spends their entire lifetime in activities that would hardly benefit the human race and our planet. Could you not spend some time guiding the rest of us to come up to your speed and direction of thought ? Honestly, the message to the rest of us is....Its about time we pull up our socks on trying to save our race and planet ourselves rather than relying on someone else to do the job. Make a contribution through action (not money) every day , however insignificant it may sound, but lets all of us do it anyways. Lets wish ourselves all success on this action plan.

'See you in zero-G'

Michael Klachko, Springfiled, IL — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 20:49:00 GMT

"I'm a little confused with Stephens reasons for doing this flight....."
Michelle Quaife, Ladysmith, BC, Canada
------------------------------------------------

Allow me to explain. The reason the great man took the flight is he wanted to experince the 0-gravity. Why? Because he is a man. Because he is curious. Because he is an explorer in every sense of the word. That's what got him where he is in the first place. And we are better for it. We, the humanity of the planet Earth, can afford to burn 10,000 gallons of jet fuel for someone like Doctor Hawking to fly there. I, for one, do not mind the resulting polution. In a way, it's kinda like wearing out shoes while climbing Everest. I am OK with it.

Hey, Doctor! Way to go, man!

'See you in zero-G'

Bob Burton — Tue, 01 May 2007 04:04:41 GMT

Whatever the reasons are that Mr. Hawkings wanted to go into space... I say, "Warp Speed Ahead!"

'See you in zero-G'

Rick Lombardi, Houston TX — Tue, 01 May 2007 13:01:30 GMT

It is unfortunate and saddening that those of the mindset of Michelle Quaife will stoop to using a momentous and joyous event such as this to bandstand for their causes. The insignificant impact that Mr. Hawking's flight has had on the fossil fuel consumption of this nation makes her comments not only inappropriate, but absolutely absurd. If this adventure serves to rekindle our interest in space exploration in the slightest, it was well worth it. Persons like Ms. Quaife with their heads in the sand are able to neither comprehend nor appreciate the benefits mankind might realize through this pursuit.

'See you in zero-G'

Nick Leszai, Houston, TX — Tue, 01 May 2007 16:02:26 GMT

The few negative and disparaging comments notwithstanding, I am equally as touched by the posting of many sensible people in this forum as I am about Mr. Hawking’s comments. He is indeed not only an icon of our scientific achievement in the early 21st Century, but a man of great vision, intellect and wit. It brings joy to my heart to see such warmth from any who have posted here. Space, here we all come, some day! As for individuals such as Ms Quaife… trade in your Suburban for a Prius and don’t spoil this glorious moment for the rest of us!