A Day in the Life of a Private Astronaut (Part 2)
We are often asked what there is to do on the International Space Station (ISS) – while the view is phenomenal (and the pictures don’t lie!) surely visitors don’t just spend all day looking out of the window. So in this two-part blog post we aim to provide some insight into everyday life in space. In Part 1 we looked at how private astronauts on-board the ISS go about their morning routine, conduct science experiments, use communication systems and prepare food. For Part 1 see here.
Observing Earth / taking photographs
The ISS has amazing views! At about 300 miles above Earth, traveling at 17,500 mph, and circling the Earth every 90 minutes, let’s face it you definitely would want to spend some time looking out of the window!
There is a computer program – Windows on Earth – that identifies what you are flying over at any given time, and there is a vast array of still and video cameras you can use to make sure you return with some awesome pics!
Amateur radio
One of the most basic communication systems, but still used by a lot of visitors to the ISS, our past clients included. Amateur or ham radio allows you to connect briefly with people on Earth as you fly overhead. Our clients participated in a number of scheduled sessions with students supported by ham radio experts on the ground, as it provided a great opportunity for the students to learn about space and radio communications at the same time. But it is also possible to just turn on the radio for unscheduled communications with ham radio users on Earth!
Sleeping in space
Weightlessness means you are continually floating. So no lying down on a comfy mattress to look forward to at the end of the day. But it is said that sleeping in space is just as relaxing. Astronauts spend their night in a sleeping bag that is tied to the wall to stop from floating.
Fun in Weightlessness
Floating in weightlessness is one of the joys of being in space. It makes some aspects of life a little difficult, but astronauts say they miss it after they have returned to Earth. This video shows some of the fun you can have in weightlessness.
We hope you have enjoyed this two part blog on life in space. If you would like to learn more about how you could experience this for yourself, please contact us.