Operation Distress

"Operation Distress" by Lester Del Rey is a science fiction tale that explores the unexpected trials of Bill Adams, the pioneer astronaut to Mars, after he comes back earthbound with a perplexing illness. The story is built around themes of solitude, the terror of cosmic unknowns, and human vulnerability amidst the stars. As Bill journeys back from Mars, he is tormented by terrible itching and a strange rash. Because of concerns that he acquired a strange illness, authorities decide to quarantine him on the Moon, heightening the tension. A young doctor comes aboard to treat Bill. The narrative details Bill's emotional and physical battles. His illness is eventually determined to be an allergic reaction to cat fur. The story underscores the unexpected difficulties of space travel and how Bill's status changes from hero to someone keen to keep his embarrassing experience quiet. The text blends humor with the gravity of space exploration.