The Last Astronaut (novel)

"The Last Astronaut" is a science fiction novel by David Wellington that follows a team of astronauts on a mission to investigate a mysterious spacecraft that has appeared in orbit around Earth. The central character, a former astronaut named Sally Jansen, is called back to duty despite her past struggles. As they explore the enigmatic alien ship, the crew confronts profound questions about humanity's place in the universe, the nature of contact with extraterrestrial life, and the emotional scars left by space travel. The story blends tension, adventure, and deep introspection about exploration and sacrifice.