Astronauts and Superstitions

When Yuri Gagarin, the first man to orbit the Earth, was on his way to the launchpad in 1961, he realized he was about to go into space with a full bladder.  So the bus made a quick pit stop so that he could get out and pee on the tire.  Ever since then, it's tradition for every space traveler flying from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to pee on the tire on their way to a launch.  You might consider this to be the first astronaut superstition, but it's hardly the last.

Before every launch from the Kennedy Space Center, astronauts eat a meal of steak, eggs, and cake, no matter the hour.  There is also a tradition of playing poker until the commander loses.  Astronauts typically bring a stuffed animal on their flight with them as well.  Not only is it considered lucky, but the fluffy little guys are a safe way to signal that gravity has shifted when they start floating around the cabin.

Other people involved in launches have their own traditions and superstitions.  Launchpad engineers believe it is bad luck for astronauts to see the rocket before launch day, and will go to great lengths to make sure it doesn't happen.  Before every mission, NASA engineers design a poster of the crew modeled after a favorite sci-fi movie.

Some astronauts lately have even taken to carrying a towel with them for good luck.  Whatever the superstition, just remember: don't panic!