Yesterday marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of a real flying Enterprise. In between the moon and Alpha came earth's first reusable space transportation system (previous anniversaries tracked here and here). That first flight actualized our intention to explore, if not immediately strange new worlds, then at least the inevitable launch-pad of familiar orbits. Naturally we will be taking along our most cherished traditions, with the added pleasure of learning to do it all over again, now just in our new surroundings.

And speaking of famous firsts this week, trust the Russians to go and claim another. First man, woman, and man's best friend in space of course, and now first bridegroom if not wedding as well. The Russian Aerospace Agency put up a pronounced objection - almost storybook so - but deep down you know they still snicker gleefully as they paste another of history's gold stars into their book. Future repeats are reportedly now forbidden but the positive press is no doubt liked today.

They're both good looking people, and don't think she's not getting a catch either. Almost three years ago aboard STS-206 Malenchenko delivered the station's toilet and - together with his fellow Science Officer - connected the cabling to the station's Zvezda service module. (Handy around the house? You bet!) Some accuse them of seeking celebrity status - like that's supposed to be a bad thing. Go ahead and shine that light of celebrity four hundred kilometers up.

Media trick, farcical or not - can't say I really care. The couple plans a more traditional ceremony upon Malenchenko's return so I expect that happy day to quell any future cynicism. (Reports say a ring, bowtie and tails were snuck up but I've got a few gentle questions about how easy it really is to "sneak" anything at all up into orbit.) These days war rumbles as Mars approaches. So it's nice to enjoy a respite of summer romance, even if only briefly.

Sayeth the Kirk: "Since the days of wooden vessels, shipmasters have had one happy privilege - that of uniting two people in the bonds of matrimony." I'm not clear to the technical issues involved but it's clear to me Malenchenko is "shipmaster" aboard Alpha. Who are we to argue with command decisions? Seriously, I'm not savvy to the legal or technical issues involved but normally one wouldn't think twice about someone marrying their beloved before attempting some risk that might separate them prematurely. With the fleet still grounded after Columbia surely our brave space pioneers deserve no less consideration.