A Day in Space

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to spend a day in space? Imagine waking up to the hum of machines, floating effortlessly in a weightless environment, and peering out at the stunning view of Earth from hundreds of kilometres above. Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is an extraordinary mix of routine and the surreal, where the ordinary becomes anything but. Let’s step into the shoes of an astronaut and explore what a day in space feels like.

astronaut in space — Image credits: Nasa.gov

Waking Up in the Stars

Morning on the ISS doesn’t begin with sunlight streaming through the window—after all, the station experiences 16 sunrises and sunsets every day. Instead, astronauts wake up according to a carefully coordinated schedule, set to GMT. Emerging from their small sleeping quarters, they begin their day tethered to the station’s rhythm. These quarters, snug and private, are equipped with a sleeping bag, a laptop, and a few personal items—a small haven in the vast expanse of space.

In microgravity, there’s no tossing or turning. Sleeping upright is as comfortable as lying down, and astronauts secure themselves with straps to avoid floating away. Artificial lighting in the ISS mimics the Earth’s day-night cycle, helping maintain their circadian rhythms.

Morning Rituals: Hygiene with a Twist

Daily hygiene in space is an adventure. With no running water, even the simplest tasks—like brushing your teeth—require a bit of creativity. Astronauts use rinseless wipes for washing up and no-rinse shampoo for their hair. Toothpaste? Swallowable, of course. Showering as we know it doesn’t exist; instead, sponge baths get the job done.

Then there’s the bathroom, a technological marvel. Suction replaces gravity to direct waste into special containers, and liquid waste undergoes recycling, transforming into drinkable water. It’s a closed-loop system designed for sustainability, though it takes some getting used to.

Breakfast in Orbit

After freshening up, it’s time to eat. Meals in space might not rival a five-star restaurant, but they’re carefully crafted to keep astronauts healthy. Pre-packaged and dehydrated, the food requires water to come back to life. Breakfast options include classics like scrambled eggs or oatmeal—though they may taste different, as microgravity dulls the senses. Hot sauce, a favourite among astronauts, adds much-needed flavour. Nutrition is serious business in space. Every meal is designed to counteract the effects of microgravity on the body, such as muscle loss and reduced bone density. A balanced diet of proteins, carbs, and essential nutrients keeps the crew in peak condition.

Diving Into the Day: Science and Repairs

The morning shifts into high gear with a packed schedule of scientific research and station maintenance. The ISS is a floating laboratory, and every moment counts. Astronauts conduct experiments ranging from testing the effects of microgravity on human cells to studying how fluids behave without the pull of gravity. These studies don’t just advance space exploration; they’re paving the way for breakthroughs back on Earth.

But it’s not all lab coats and test tubes. Maintaining the station’s complex systems is just as critical. Astronauts inspect equipment, troubleshoot issues, and sometimes don their spacesuits for extravehicular activities (EVAs). These spacewalks—gruelling yet awe-inspiring—are the pinnacle of a day’s work.

Breaking a Sweat in Zero Gravity

Staying fit in space is non-negotiable. Without gravity, muscles weaken and bones lose density. That’s why astronauts dedicate about two hours each day to exercise. The ISS gym includes a treadmill, cycle ergometer, and resistance machines—all adapted for weightlessness. Strapped into harnesses, the crew members push through their routines, knowing it’s essential for both their physical and mental health.

Exercise sessions are a mix of hard work and fun. Imagine running on a treadmill while floating, or lifting “weights” that aren’t bound by gravity. It’s challenging, but it’s also a reminder of the incredible adaptability of the human body.

Afternoon Adventures: Operations and Outreach

Afternoons on the ISS are filled with a mix of tasks. From monitoring systems to managing supplies, the crew ensures that the station runs smoothly. Communication with mission control is constant, as every action is meticulously planned and coordinated.

Outreach is another important part of their day. Astronauts take time to inspire the next generation, connecting with students, researchers, and the public through live Q&A sessions and educational programs. These moments of connection bridge the gap between Earth and the stars, making space exploration feel accessible to everyone.

Relaxing Among the Stars

Evenings bring a well-earned chance to relax. Free time might include watching a movie, reading, or gazing out of the Cupola—a favourite pastime for many astronauts. The panoramic views from this observation module are breathtaking. Picture Earth glowing in the darkness, auroras shimmering at the poles, and lightning storms dancing across continents. Staying connected to loved ones is also a priority. Astronauts can make video calls or send emails to family and friends, bringing a touch of home to the vastness of space. It’s a small but powerful way to maintain their mental well-being in an environment so far removed from everyday life.

Yours truly,

Riyam Ojaimi