Though not in a spaceship, I've also had this direct experience - & it's not just earth that's alive & sentient, but all planets.

We sometimes leave the body in meditation. I found myself out beyond earth's atmosphere just sort of gliding outward in whatever direction intention took me.

Suddenly, I was addressed by a planet, internally - telepathically, I guess - no words spoken. It was a pleasant, uplifting greeting which actually shocked me, busting my belief system as it did - but I responded.

We had a short but thoroughly enjoyable interchange before I moved on. Actually, I returned to my body at home, I suspect as a result of being rather stunned.

Mother Earth is certainly alive & sentient. Many commune with her in meditation regularly. Just my 2 cents. ;-)

~♥~