Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink. It’s a famous line from “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,” uttered by a more-than-thirsty sailor on a ship bereft of fresh water as he is forced to stare at an ocean of sea water he cannot use to satiate his need. And so, I’m sure, has been the sentiment of many a sailor, explorer, or pioneer—really, anyone who was the first to attempt something.
These trailblazers are bound to encounter the unexpected. The lucky and skillful will overcome these obstacles to succeed in their quest. Others would not be so lucky. The luck for us is in those that are able to document their experience for the betterment of humankind, whether they succeed or not.