Music has always played a profound role in human culture, from the earliest drumbeats around a fire to the latest hits on streaming services. But did you know that music has also accompanied humanity’s most daring explorations into the cosmos? NASA and other space agencies have recognised the power of music to inspire, soothe, and connect astronauts to Earth, creating playlists that resonate beyond our planet. Let’s explore how music has intertwined with interstellar space missions and the impact it has had on astronauts.
A Soundtrack for Exploration
From the very beginning of space exploration, music has been a companion for astronauts. During the Apollo missions, NASA encouraged astronauts to create personal playlists to help them cope with the isolation and stress of long missions. For example, the Apollo 10 mission in 1969 famously played a mix of songs, including "These Boots Are Made for Walkin’" and "The Ballad of Davy Crockett," as they orbited the Moon. The astronauts’ choice of music served a dual purpose: it provided entertainment and it also fostered a sense of normalcy in the otherwise extraordinary environment of space. In the isolation of a spacecraft, familiar tunes acted as a bridge to home, reminding astronauts of their lives on Earth.
The astronauts of Apollo 11 also had their own favourite songs with them on tape. Have a listen to Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong's selection here:
The Golden Records
One of the most iconic examples of music in space is the Voyager Golden Record. Launched in 1977, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 were sent on a mission to explore the outer planets and beyond. As part of this mission, NASA created the Golden Record, a time capsule intended to communicate the story of our world to extra-terrestrial beings.
The record features a diverse selection of sounds and music from around the globe, including classical pieces by Beethoven and Bach, traditional songs from various cultures, and even a Navajo night chant. This collection was chosen to represent the rich tapestry of human culture and creativity, showcasing the universal language of music. The Golden Record serves as a testament to humanity’s desire to connect with the cosmos and share our artistic expressions with potential life beyond Earth. The video below plays the full 5 hours and is well worth your and the children's time during World Space Week.
As if that isn't enough, you can even see exactly how far it has travelled, its position and status since leaving the Hellosphere in 2012, using the link below:
Music as a Tool for Science
Interestingly, music is not just a source of comfort for astronauts; it also has potential scientific applications. Research has shown that music can influence mood and cognitive function, which could be valuable in high-stress environments like space missions. As NASA continues to explore long-duration missions, such as those to Mars, understanding the psychological effects of music on astronauts will be crucial for maintaining their mental health and performance.
Music has been investigated for its ability to help astronauts manage sleep cycles in space, where the absence of a regular day-night cycle can disrupt circadian rhythms. NASA has experimented with specific types of music and sounds that promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
On the ISS, astronauts have access to music, which they use during exercise, work, and relaxation periods. Some astronauts have even brought their own instruments (like guitars and keyboards) to play music, adding a personal touch to their environment. Commander Chris Hadfield not only had his own playlists, but also had a custom guitar made suitable for space. Check out the two videos he made below.
Music has worked the other way around too. Rather than sending music into space, musicians on Earth have been inspired and fascinated by the planets and our solar system for hundreds of years. None more so than the composer Gustav Holst.
Music has been a constant companion for humanity as we reach for the stars, transcending boundaries and connecting us to our roots on Earth. From the early Apollo missions to the Voyager Golden Record and modern astronaut playlists, the link between music and space exploration is profound. As we continue to venture further into the cosmos, the melodies that accompany us will serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and the power of music to inspire and uplift, even in the far reaches of space. Whether it's a soothing lullaby or an exhilarating rock anthem, music will always be a vital part of our interstellar journey.
Here's a selection of modern songs you could listen to, all inspired by space! 2000 Light Years From Home – The Rolling Stones · 1967
A Fun Bunch Of Guys From Outer Space – Sparks · 1983
A Sky Full of Stars – Coldplay · 2014
Across the Universe – The Beatles · 1969
Black Hole Sun – Soundgarden · 1994
Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft – Carpenters · 2016
Cosmic Girl – Jamiroquai · 1996
Fly Me to the Moon (In Other Words) – Frank Sinatra - 1964
Harvest Moon – Neil Young · 1992
Intergalactic – Beastie Boys · 1998
Interstellar Overdrive – Pink Floyd · 1967
Life on Mars? - David Bowie - 1973
Mr. Spaceman – The Byrds · 1966
Out of Space – The Prodigy · 1992
Rocket Man - Elton John - 1972
Rocket Man by Elton John is a song inspired by Ray Bradbury's short story "The Rocket Man". The lyrics tell the story of an astronaut who is torn between his love of space exploration and his longing for his family back on Earth. The song captures the loneliness and mixed feelings of the astronaut as he embarks on his mission. Iranian filmmaker and refugee Majid Adin reimagines “Rocket Man” to tell a new story of adventure, loneliness and hope.
Satellite of Love 2004 – Lou Reed · 1972
Saturn – Stevie Wonder · 1976
Set The Controls For The Heart Of The Sun – Pink Floyd · 1968
Space Age Love Song – A Flock Of Seagulls · 1982
Space Cowboy – Steve Miller Band - 1969
Space Dementia – Muse · 2001
Space Junk – Devo · 1978
Space Man - Sam Ryder - 2022
Space Oddity – David Bowie · 1969
Space Song – Beach House · 2015
Space Truckin' – Deep Purple · 1972
Spacelab - Kraftwerk - 1978
Spaceman – Babylon Zoo · 1996
Spaceman – The Killers · 2008
Starlight – Muse · 2006
Starman - David Bowie - 1972
Subterranean Homesick Alien – Radiohead · 1997
Supersonic Rocket Ship – The Kinks · 1972
There’s a Star for Everyone – Aretha Franklin · 1981
The Race for Space - Public Service Broadcasting - 2015
The Race for Space by Public Service Broadcasting is a great album themed entirely around the Space Race itself. It's well worth watching all the videos in this playlist, and they serve as great listening, watching and discussion points for your class too.
The Space Race is Over - Billy Bragg - 2017
Walking On The Moon – The Police · 1979
We Are All Made of Stars – Moby · 2002
Do let us know of any more, and see if you can share the music of the cosmos with your classes this week too!
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