Photo by Travis Mortz
1. When did you become an astronaut for Spacecraft?
Fall of 2012 I was invited onto the Spacecraft Crew!
2. How do you “Make It Happen” daily?
My goals everyday are to have as much fun as possible, try new things, new places and share it with rad people… it just happens from there!
3. What has been your favorite mission so far?
My most successful mission was to India last winter to film a movie with Soul Ryders. We got super lucky with conditions, got in the heli for two days, skied Gulmarg and toured the backcountry of the Himalayas. I had the most incredible experiences including skiing one of the longest runs of my life with a helicopter buzzing over my head and diving into the completely unique culture of India.
4. Who inspires you?
Jim Jack. He was the head judge of the Freeskiing World Tour who passed away. He was the funnest person I’ve ever known. He brought the best out in every person and every situation. He was always smiling, laughing, or giving someone a big hug. His passion for life bubbled out of him and was incredibly contagious.
5. When you aren’t in space, what are you doing?
I love going on long runs or hikes while rocking out to good music, I practice yoga as often as possible, traveling will always be a passion of mine, backpacking, editing.
6. What does it mean to you to be an Astronaut?
I think exploring new options. There is always room in everything you do to make it different and new. I think it’s important to stay positive, a frustrating situation can turn into a new adventure, just get creative and have fun with it. That what it’s all about!
7. How long have you been riding/creating?
I’ve been sliding around the snow for about 22 years.
8. Where’s your home base/home mountain?
I’m from Seattle, I spent 6 years skiing Utah and now live in Truckee, Ca and ski Squaw.
9. If you had a million dollars, you would ___________ ?
Travel to exotic places, learn their cultures and find a way to contribute to their world.
10. Favorite nick name you’ve been given and why?
My first year in Utah I lived at a mid-mountain lodge and my boss made fun of my groggy smile every morning so he called me Sunshine, all the customers thought it was my real name. My friends call me V and Ness.
11. Personal Mission statement:
Never let your fear decide your fate
Check out this edit of Vanessa skiing in India and Utah.
