Astronauts living aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have provided an inside look at their daily routines, highlighting the unique experience of life in microgravity. Among the more unusual aspects of their lives in space is the “space smell,” a strange odor that clings to their spacesuits after spacewalks. Described as a mix of burnt metal and gunpowder, this smell is one of the peculiar sensations that astronauts encounter while working outside the station.
Life aboard the ISS is highly structured, with astronauts dedicating their time to scientific research, maintenance, and physical exercise. They conduct cutting-edge experiments that take advantage of the microgravity environment, offering insights that could lead to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and physics. For instance, astronauts have experimented with growing food in space, a crucial area of study for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Astronauts also have to adjust to the practical challenges of living in zero gravity, from floating while eating to managing hygiene. Sleeping in space involves securing oneself to a wall to avoid drifting, while regular exercise is vital to combat the loss of muscle mass and bone density. Despite the hardships, astronauts frequently describe the awe-inspiring view of Earth from the ISS and the strong sense of teamwork they develop with their fellow crew members, making their time aboard the station truly unforgettable.
