 But there was a small mishap. While connecting himself to the helicopter's rescue line, Prather slipped, falling into the ocean. This shouldn't have been that big of a deal, and no one in the rescue helicopter panicked. The space suit should have been watertight and buoyant. But since Prather had opened his faceplate, he was now exposed to the elements. Water rushed into his suit. Prather drowned. Think of how much planning goes into launching someone into space. So much expertise, so much contingencies.