Astronaut Chris Hadfield Explores Cold War Geopolitics in New Novel

image via New Scientist

October 8, 2025, 10:00 AM

• •Chris Hadfield's new book is titled "Final Orbit."
• •The book is an alternative-history thriller set in 1975 during the Cold War.
• •Hadfield draws on his experience as an astronaut to inform his writing.
• •The book incorporates real historical figures and events.
• •Hadfield hopes readers will gain insight into current events by reading "Final Orbit."

Chris Hadfield, the astronaut and author, discusses his new thriller, "Final Orbit," which blends real Cold War history, space race geopolitics, and his firsthand space experience into a gripping work of fiction. The book, set in 1975, features historical figures navigating geopolitical tensions reminiscent of current events. Hadfield explains how his astronaut background informs his writing, emphasizing the use of real events and figures. He also shares his hopes that readers will gain insight into today's geopolitical landscape through the parallels presented in his fiction.

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