Astronauts really are made of the right stuff. They are exceptionally bright, have complex technical skills, are in outstanding physical condition, and have perfect vision. They are also exceptionally courageous, reliable in case of an emergency, and trusted with highly prized secrets. Their missions into space helped transform the present into a better tomorrow. Many, interestingly enough, are Jewish.

The Wall Street Synagogue stood only several blocks from the World Trade Center. It existed in large part because Jewish men and women working downtown needed somewhere to daven, say Kaddish, observe a yahrzeit, or simply step out of the financial district and into a shul. It followed traditional Orthodox practice, with separate seating for men and women. Its weekday congregation included Jews ranging from secular to fervently Orthodox. September 11 brought devastating losses to that congregation.