Then during the mission itself, I used the space shuttle's robot arm to release a satellite into orbit.

I never went into physics or the astronaut corps to become a role model. But after my first flight, it became clear to me that I was one. And I began to understand the importance of that to people. Young girls need to see role models in whatever careers they may choose, just so they can picture themselves doing those jobs someday. You can't be what you can't see.

The pressure suit helps if something goes wrong during launch or re-entry - astronauts have a way to parachute off the shuttle. The suits protect you from loss of pressure in case of emergency.

I do a lot of running and hiking, and I also collect stamps - space stamps and Olympics stamps.

Then during the mission itself, I used the space shuttle's robot arm to release a satellite into orbit.

But when I wasn't working, I was usually at a window looking down at Earth.

Even though NASA tries to simulate launch, and we practice in simulators, it's not the same - it's not even close to the same.