Super Bowl XP1 Goes International Space!
Astronauts Toss Football on International Space Station
Two NASA astronauts on the International Space Station took a break from their usual activities to gear up for Super Bowl LVIII. During Expedition 70, astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara were spotted throwing around a football while floating in the weightlessness of outer space. NASA captured their short, 4-second video which quickly gained attention.
Football Toss in Space
In the video, Jasmin Moghbeli was seen throwing the football towards a floating camera as Loral O’Hara joined the fun, holding a microphone. The toss was quite harrowing as the astronauts were surrounded by laptops, cables, and other station equipment. The football took an unexpected trajectory before floating back towards Moghbeli.
Taylor Swift’s Influence
In a longer version of the video, NASA made a reference to Taylor Swift, the popular singer known for her relationship with football player Travis Kelce from the victorious Kansas City Chiefs. O’Hara joked about new Kansas City fans swiftly catching up on football due to Swift’s interest in the game. Representing Swift’s trademark, Moghbeli also made a heart symbol with her hands, which has been a recurring gesture in Swift’s performances. Elated with the crossover, football fans eagerly awaited the Super Bowl battle ahead.
NASA’s Super Bowl Connection
Staying true to their tradition, NASA once again made their presence felt in the Super Bowl festivities. In 2017, they hosted a space-themed Super Bowl Live experience during the game’s presence in Houston. Additionally, NASA employed their expertise to conduct tests on the footballs used in the NFL. The space agency’s ties to the Super Bowl even go as far as tossing a coin in space, which was used for the opening coin toss in 2010’s Super Bowl XLIV. Leland Melvin, a former NFL player turned astronaut, also added to this fascinating connection.
Canadian Space Agency’s Involvement
The Canadian Space Agency did not lag far behind in their Super Bowl involvement. They showcased their Dextre robot, donning a football official’s jersey, on the hull of the International Space Station. In the playful animated video, Dextre confidently made a touchdown sign with its arms, receiving great appreciation from supporters watching.