9 Unexpected Things While Living on the International Space Station

Floating some 408 kilometers above Earth, the International Space Station (ISS) is not just a marvel of modern engineering but also a home in the cosmos for a select group of astronauts. Living in this orbiting laboratory involves far more than just conducting scientific experiments in zero gravity.

From surprising daily routines to unique challenges and perks, life on the ISS comes with many aspects that might astonish those of us grounded on Earth.

1. The Surprisingly Fast Commute

Speeding Around the Earth: The ISS travels at an astonishing speed of about 28,000 kilometers per hour, making it one of the fastest human-made vehicles in existence. This rapid journey around the Earth not only provides breathtaking views but also affects the astronauts’ perception of time. (ref)

Impact on Daily Life: The constant shifting from day to night can play havoc with the body’s natural circadian rhythms, leading NASA to implement specially designed lighting systems to mimic the natural progression of day and night to help astronauts maintain a healthy sleep cycle. This adaptation is crucial for maintaining the physical and mental well-being of the crew during their months-long stays in orbit.

2. A World Without Showers

No Running Water in Space: Imagine not having a shower for months on end. On the ISS, water is an extremely valuable resource, and as such, traditional showers are nonexistent. Instead, astronauts use rinseless wipes and no-rinse shampoos to clean themselves. (ref) Water droplets in a zero-gravity environment can be a nuisance as they float around and can potentially damage equipment.

Innovative Hygiene Solutions: This reliance on alternative cleaning methods means that personal hygiene on the ISS is an entirely different ball game. Engineers have had to come up with ingenious solutions to tackle this problem, such as highly absorbent towels and vacuums that can suck up stray water droplets, ensuring that the astronauts can stay clean without the luxury of flowing water.

3. The Challenge of Dining in Zero Gravity

Floating Food Facts: Eating in space is not as simple as sitting down to a meal at your kitchen table. In zero gravity, everything floats, including food and drinks. Astronauts use special containers and utensils to keep their meals from floating away. The food itself is often dehydrated or vacuum-sealed, requiring rehydration or heating before consumption. (ref)

The Evolution of Space Cuisine: Over the years, space food has evolved from basic paste-like substances to a variety of international dishes, allowing astronauts to enjoy a semblance of normal eating habits. This variety is not only important for physical health but also for morale, making meal times an event that astronauts look forward to and use as a way to bond and feel connected to their Earthly cultures.

4. Working Out in Space

Necessity of Exercise: Physical exercise is crucial in space to combat muscle atrophy and bone density loss caused by the microgravity environment. Astronauts are required to exercise at least two hours per day using specialized equipment, including a treadmill, a stationary bike, and a device akin to a weight-lifting machine, all modified for zero gravity. (ref)

High-Tech Gym Gear: This equipment is designed not only to provide resistance in a weightless environment but also to secure the astronauts to the machines to prevent them from floating away during their workout. A consistent routine not only helps maintain physical health but also plays a significant role in mental well-being, providing a structured daily activity that resembles life on Earth.

5. The Silent Serenity of Space

Noise Inside the Station: While space itself is a vacuum and, therefore, silent, the inside of the ISS is anything but. The hum of machinery, the buzz of computers, and the sound of fellow astronauts moving around create constant background noise. Soundproofing is minimal, and the noise level can be comparable to a busy office.

Peace Beyond the Station Walls: However, when astronauts take spacewalks, they are treated to the profound silence of the cosmos. Many describe this experience as surreal and immensely peaceful, offering a stark contrast to the bustling activity inside the station. This unique environment provides a rare and cherished moment of solitude and reflection.

6. Sleeping Among the Stars

Sleep Arrangements in Space: One might think that sleeping in space is an otherworldly experience—and they’d be right, but perhaps not for the reasons they imagine. On the ISS, astronauts don’t have traditional beds. Instead, they sleep in small personal sleeping quarters, roughly the size of a phone booth, where they are strapped into sleeping bags attached to the walls. This prevents them from floating around while they sleep.

The View from the “Bedroom”: The sleeping quarters are small, but they often have a window view of space, allowing astronauts to drift off to sleep while gazing at the Earth or stars. Despite the confinement, many astronauts report that sleeping in space is incredibly comfortable due to the lack of pressure points on the body in the absence of gravity. However, the rapid day-night cycle of 90 minutes can disrupt sleep patterns, requiring some adaptation.

7. Extraordinary Emergency Training

Preparing for All Scenarios: Astronauts undergo rigorous emergency response training before heading to the ISS. This training covers everything from fire outbreaks to depressurization and medical emergencies. Given the complexity and danger of operating a spacecraft away from Earth’s immediate help, being prepared for any scenario is critical to the safety and well-being of everyone on board. (ref)

Simulation Intensity: The training includes incredibly realistic simulations, ensuring that astronauts can remain calm and effective under pressure. They learn to work closely with their international teammates, building a camaraderie that is crucial in high-stress situations. This intense preparation makes them not just colleagues but a tightly-knit crew that can depend on each other when it counts.

8. Recycling on a Whole New Level

Advanced Waste Management: On the ISS, recycling isn’t just about being eco-friendly—it’s a necessity for survival. The station features a complex system that recycles about 98% of all water on board. This includes moisture from the air, sweat, and even urine. The sophisticated water recovery systems ensure that astronauts have the water they need for drinking and other activities, dramatically reducing the need for water supplies from Earth. (ref)

Importance of Sustainability: This extreme level of recycling underscores the importance of sustainability in space travel. It serves as a model for recycling and resource conservation on Earth, highlighting how critical efficient resource management is in closed environments, whether in space or on our home planet.

9. A Unique Perspective on Earth

Earth Observations: Astronauts on the ISS have a unique vantage point for observing Earth. They can see natural phenomena like hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and auroras in real-time. This not only provides spectacular views but also valuable scientific data that can be used to better understand our planet.

Impact on Astronauts: Many astronauts report experiencing the “Overview Effect”—a cognitive shift in awareness and perspective after seeing Earth from space. This profound feeling often results in increased feelings of awe, a greater appreciation for the planet, and a renewed sense of responsibility for the protection of our world. The view from the ISS offers not just scientific benefits but a deeper connection to our planet and its well-being. (ref)