posted 12-14-2002 01:22 PM               

After the 2:30 talk, Gene-o retired to the Space Store to sign copies of his book, with the admonition from DN folks NO outside autographs. For the most part Gene-o kept to this although he did sign a neat Apollo 17 moon view litho previously signed by Ron Evans for collectSpace and Astronauts List member Val Phillips. As I understand it he signed twice more.

While Gene-o was being overwhelmed by people, mostly former space workers who engaged him in many reminiscent conversations (all of which he handled ADMIRABLY), Dr. Schmitt retired to the AE office nearby. At one point he was standing outside, and I approached him, introduced myself and asked if he would sign for the 5 of us waiting for him. As it had started to lightly rain he said sure and ran back inside to grab a sharpie (even though I offered my own). He signed 2 pictures for me, including my Moon Voyagers piece (that now has 10 signatures). I used a "Mans Greatest Adventure" book for him to write on, and he said "Want me to sign your book too?" Points off for anyone who thinks I declined. ;-) He did step back inside, and allowed the others to have hteir items handed into the office, in order to stay dry.

As Gene-o was trapped signing books, Dr. Schmitt took to the stage once more - solo this time but was very well versed in handling it. His speech was great.

Good to see Tom Treciak, Ross, Tom Neal, Alan and his son Christopher, Gary Clarke, Dan Mangieri and Val Phillips!

A very enjoyable time.

posted 12-14-2002 10:27 PM               

I found the talks fascinating and fun, a couple of high points were where Dr Schmitt explained the theories of how the moon was formed and that he's in the 5% as against to 95% group (there was a prog on British telly a month ago which included this and opted for the 95% opinion that a mars sized planetoid hit Earth). Also where he asked Captain Cernan the question they were afraid to ask - 'How do you go to the bathroom in space?'! *g*

I doubt I'll need to get the plane back as I'm still floating after both Dr Schmitt and Capt Cernan signed my litho. That so made my day.

It was a great day to make up for a rotten year.