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Astro Notes: How NASA and Space Reality Inspire a New Adventure

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The following list contains descriptions of the reality-based story elements of Mission: SPACE inspired by NASA and its space pioneers
ISTC (International Space Training Center) -- The story of Mission: SPACE takes place at the ISTC in the year 2036. In this future time of enthusiastic space exploration, many countries have joined together to create the ISTC, to train a new generation of space explorers.
Capcom (Capsule Communicator) -- A name dating back to the days when all spacecraft were capsules. The Capcom is the voice of Mission Control, guiding astronauts through their missions. The ISTC Capcom guides all astronaut candidates through their first training mission.
We choose to go! -- The motto of the International Space Training Center, taken from a speech by President John F. Kennedy: "We choose to go to the Moon ... not because it is easy, but because it is hard."
X-2 Deep-Space Shuttle -- The X-2 is the creation of Disney Imagineers, but is based on scientific fact and theory provided by scientists, engineers and future-thinkers from NASA, Jet Propulsion Laboratory and private industry.
ISTC Astronaut Recruiting Center -- Located just inside the ISTC's distinctive red sphere is an area where astronaut hopefuls can learn about available flight training missions at the ISTC.
Simulation Lab -- A training area of the ISTC, featuring a 35-foot-tall Gravity Wheel mock-up.
Gravity Wheel -- A feature of the ISTC X-1 spacecraft, precursor of the X-2. This slowly rotating "hab" provides artificial gravity, important to astronauts on flights lasting years.
X-1 Spacecraft -- A model of the ISTC X-1 Spacecraft hangs overhead in the Simulation Lab.
Lunar Rover -- An authentic Apollo-era Lunar Rover display unit, on loan from the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum, is located in the ISTC Simulation Lab
Training Operations Room -- A room in the ISTC where flight training missions are being programmed. Astronaut hopefuls can view flight-training sessions in progress at the ISTC facility at Epcot, as well as video feeds of ongoing ISTC training sessions around the world.
Team Dispatch -- Here, trainees are assigned to teams and sent into Ready Rooms.
Ready Room -- In the Ready Room, trainees meet their Capcom for the first time. He reminds them of the importance of training and teamwork, and introduces them to the X-2 Deep Space Shuttle. Then he sends them to their Pre-Flight briefing.
Pre-flight Corridor -- This area was inspired by the White Room at Kennedy Space Center, where astronauts traditionally wait to board their spacecraft. Here, the ISTC trainees meet their Capcom again. He briefs them on their training mission, and gives them all specific assignments.
Advanced Training Lab (ATL) -- Another training area of the ISTC. Here, candidates can train to become a part of the Mission Control Team, or learn about exploring other planets. Training opportunities include:
Mission: SPACE Race - A Mission Control training exercise, in which two teams race against each other to be the first to complete a successful mission.
Expedition: Mars - An interactive obstacle course that preps explorers for conditions on other planets.
Space Base - A space-themed exploration area for junior astronauts.
Postcards from Space - A fun kiosk where astronaut trainees can e-mail video messages to far-flung friends.
Mission: SPACE Cargo Bay - A retail center located at the ISTC, this area features astronaut gear and supplies such as hats, mugs and clothing with the Mission: SPACE logo and space food like freeze-dried ice cream, strawberries and chicken dinners.
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