A US astronaut has been charged with trying to kidnap a woman she thought was a romantic rival for the affections of a space shuttle pilot.

Police said Capt Nowak drove 1,000 miles (1,600km) from her home in Houston to Orlando International Airport, wearing a nappy to avoid a toilet break.

Ms Shipman was then attacked with the pepper spray, it says. She drove to a car park booth and police were called.

It is believed to be the first time an astronaut has been charged with a crime.

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