Read this excerpt from The Man Who Went to the Far Side of the Moon.

Before Neil and Buzz can take off from the moon and return to the capsule, Michael has to make 850 computer commands. Surrounding him on the walls of the capsule are more than 700 switches, levers, alarm buttons, gauges, warning lights, and computer keys. There are sensors that should never, ever, point to red. There are yellow-and-black-striped buttons with functions so important that they are covered with plastic lids to prevent a tired, lonely astronaut from pushing them by mistake.

What is the author's viewpoint in this excerpt?

Michael Collins should not have had to do his job all by himself.
Michael Collins's job was more difficult than Neil's and Buzz’s jobs.
Michael Collins had an important role in Neil and Buzz walking on the moon.
Michael Collins was tired and very prone to making serious errors.

1 answer

The author's viewpoint in this excerpt is that Michael Collins had an important role in Neil and Buzz walking on the moon. The emphasis on the numerous computer commands, complex controls, and critical functions that Collins had to manage highlights the significance of his contributions to the success of the mission.