Reflections from Space: A Personal Account on the Events of September 11, 2001

Editor’s Note: The following is a letter from Expedition Three Commander Frank L. Culbertson (Captain, USN Retired), reflecting on the events of September 11, 2001, from his unique vantage point aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

September 12, 2001; 7:34 p.m.

During my time aboard the International Space Station, I’ve rarely had the opportunity to write in detail about my experiences. This is partly because our schedule is packed and partly because sharing my personal thoughts with a global audience feels daunting. However, the events of September 11, 2001, have compelled me to put pen to paper.

Yesterday, the world as we knew it changed dramatically. The attack on our country by terrorists has left an indelible mark. It’s hard to process the magnitude of what has occurred and to direct our emotions of anger and fear towards the faceless perpetrators.

The day began routinely for me, engaging in several tasks including conducting physical exams for all crew members. Following the exams, the flight surgeon informed me of the catastrophic events unfolding on the ground, describing it to me around 9:00 AM CDT. Initially, I was in disbelief, thinking it was a scenario from one of my Tom Clancy audiobooks. The reality of such massive destruction on American soil seemed unfathomable.

My Russian colleague, Vladimir, and my American crewmate, Michael, quickly sensed something was amiss and joined the conversation. They were equally shocked and sympathetic when I explained the potential scale of the terrorist attacks in Manhattan and at the Pentagon.

With a sense of urgency, I located a window with a view of New York City and grabbed the nearest camera, which happened to be a video camera. From Michael’s cabin, I aimed the camera south towards the city. The smoke billowing from the site of the World Trade Center had an unusual bloom at its base, likely indicating the collapse of the second tower. It was a harrowing sight.

As we orbited further, I scanned the East Coast for signs of destruction around Washington D.C. but saw nothing immediately identifiable. The view from 200-300 miles above the Earth was surreal and detached, making it hard to grasp the ground-level devastation.

The emotional impact of these attacks is profound, compounded by a sense of isolation from being the only American off the planet at such a critical time. The overwhelming feeling of wanting to be there with my fellow citizens, to help in any way, is strong.

September 13, 2001

Fatigue and emotional strain took their toll, making it difficult to continue writing. Today, we received more information and reassurance from key figures like Center Director Roy Estess and NASA Administrator Dan Goldin. They emphasized the unwavering commitment to our safety and the mission’s success. Their words were reassuring, and the ground teams have been exemplary in maintaining operations despite the turmoil.

Our Russian colleagues at the TsUP (Mission Control Center) have also been supportive, providing news updates and expressing their condolences. My crewmates, Vladimir and Michael, have been understanding and supportive, giving me space when needed and even preparing comfort food like borscht to lift my spirits.

The news of Captain Chic Burlingame, a classmate and friend, being the pilot of the American Airlines jet that hit the Pentagon, was particularly devastating. Chic’s bravery and potential actions to divert the plane from an even worse target highlight the personal connections many of us have to the victims of these attacks.

September 14, 2001; 10:49 p.m.

As the week progressed, we continued our mission aboard the ISS. Tonight, the latest addition to the station, the Russian Docking Compartment, was launched from Baikonur, Kazakhstan. This new module will enhance our capabilities by providing additional docking ports and an airlock for spacewalks in Russian Orlan suits, which we plan to conduct before our return.

The influx of news and emails has been overwhelming, but the support and friendship expressed in these messages are deeply appreciated. We had a meaningful discussion over dinner about the implications of these events and potential future actions. Michael shared that his friends in Russia had sent their condolences, underscoring the global solidarity in the face of this tragedy.

The Russian MCC has gone above and beyond, transmitting live news broadcasts to keep me informed. The outpouring of support from specialists and the Russian capcom, who shared that people in Moscow were bringing flowers and lighting candles outside the U.S. embassy, was particularly touching.

Reflections

From my vantage point in space, the events of September 11th are both surreal and profoundly impactful. The stark contrast between our mission to improve life on Earth and witnessing such senseless destruction is jarring. The knowledge that our world has irrevocably changed is sobering.

Despite the distance, my confidence in our country’s resilience and leadership remains strong. I trust that justice will be pursued and that NASA will ensure our mission’s safe continuation. While I cannot be with you on the ground, my thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy.

Concluding Thoughts

The launch of the Russian Docking Compartment was a poignant reminder that life continues, even in space. The sight of the Soyuz booster against the dark backdrop of Earth was a moment of awe amidst a week of sorrow. This event symbolizes the ongoing commitment to our mission and the enduring spirit of exploration.

As we move forward, the cooperation and trust demonstrated aboard the ISS serve as an example for the world. In the face of tragedy, we must strive for peace and understanding, recognizing the shared humanity that binds us all.

Life on the ISS continues, and we are here to stay.

Humbly,

Frank

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