Mary and Deece both came in-person to offer congratulations (and more than one celebratory fistbump), as well as to bid her farewell and good luck on her journey.

But it would be much easier to get swept up in the Star Gazer's warmth and joy, once Konoka was safely back onboard and they could depart.

"I saw!" she said, delight overshadowing that the it was also technically a factual statement.

"And that is a fitting reward for all you've learned here, as well. ... Would you put it on, please?"

As the Star Gazer prepared for takeoff, most of her attention was still palpably on Konoka.