NASA's Scientist-Astronauts (Springer Praxis Books) Paperback – Illustrated, 18 Sept. 2006

Who knew about these overlooked guys? I didn't know these stories. Guys who were sucked into the NASA world, which really didn't yet have a place for them, and in many cases were spat back out after a couple of years. Often the stories of those who almost make it are far more eventful than the high achievers. It proves to be the same way here. Great, great book.

I found this book fascinating. Who knew about these scientists who, despite being at the very top of their game, were treated very oddly by NASA and their fellow astronauts, waiting two decades to fly in space in some cases? As a social story this was fascinating, as was the science.

Amazing stories found within these pages, of scientists entering the closed world of a test pilot brotherhood. Some proved themselves ably, some ran from the scene. Little-known, powerful stories, which made for a great read.