Terna web magazine interviews astronaut Umberto Guidoni

Oct. 5, 2009 - PRLog -- What is energy? How do people relate to its consumption and how deep are we aware of its presence and influence in our life? "Notizie tra le linee" – Italian electricity transmission operator Terna web magazine –spots a light on these questions just like a modern Diogenes.

Sport, television, economy and science. Everyone has to face the same problems in its ordinary daily routine, still our single experiences and professional skills define a unique vision on energy and its use.

Interviews become quite interesting when we can get in touch with people involved in uncommon tasks and activities. Ever wondered what’s an astronaut point of view on electricity and its consumption?

"Notizie tra le linee" asks some questions to ESA astronaut Umberto Guidoni, veteran of two NASA space shuttle missions. Let's find out his relation with energy and power saving.

- What is electricity for you?
- It represents an important element of everyday life.

- Do you think mankind could live without it?
- At this point, I don't think so.

- Is it an unlimited source or should it be used sparingly?
- It isn't unlimited and it’s always more expensive to produce.

- Could you define yourself as an energy saver?
- Yes, even though I am sure that much more can be done.

- For example, when you leave a room, do you always turn off the light?
- Yes.

- Do you often leave electronic equipment on stand-by?
- Yes, and I know I have to work on this.

- When there is an energy emergency and it is necessary to limit electricity consumption, do you adapt? Or do you continue to be set in your habits?
- I try to adapt.

- What would you light up better in your city or in Italy?
- I would improve street lighting; there are some areas with lights that actually don't need lighting and other areas that need lighting are left in the dark.

- What would you do to render high voltage pylons more user-friendly?
- I don't know, but I don't see it as a problem.

- A suggestion for Terna, the national electricity grid operator.
- They should also invest in the transmission grid, not only in the production.