I’m an active amateur astronomer and am fascinated by space in general. I’ve closely followed Richard’s trip since the first podcast and was glad to see him have such a great trip.

I especially enjoyed the story where Richard explained how the NASA astronauts accepted him into the club based on their motivations, not their qualifications. The professionalism and candor of our astronauts never fails to amaze me.

I think the media’s tag of “Space Tourist” and NASA’s tag of “Private Space Explore” both miss the point. I propose a new name for Richard and his fellow travelers: Amateur Astronaut!

By definition, an amateur is one who engages in a pursuit, study, science, or sport for the love of it and not to make money. In the world of Astronomy, amateurs can now do things that 10 years ago, only professionals with multi-million dollar equipment could perform. I see Richard in the same vein: he is at the leading edge of a new wave.

So what do you think? Amateur Astronaut Garriott – I like the ring of it!!! Don’t forget where you heard it first