Touch the Sky

Touch the Sky is a science fiction short story by Alfred Coppel, first published in 1955. The narrative follows Pete Moore as he prepares for a moonshot mission, reflecting on his ambitions and the existential dread that accompanies them. The story contrasts his hopeful aspirations with the surreal nature of reality, culminating in a profound realization about the limits of man's journey and the fragility of dreams. Notable for its exploration of human ambition and the allure of space exploration, the tale captures the tension between excitement and fear inherent in venturing into the unknown.