Day 1: Arrival

The journey to the International Space Station (ISS) is a thrilling experience. As the spacecraft docks, the sense of weightlessness becomes more pronounced. Floating through the hatch into the station, I’m greeted by my fellow astronauts. We exchange excited hellos and get a brief tour of our new home. The station is a marvel of engineering, with modules interconnected like a complex jigsaw puzzle. Each module has a specific function, from laboratories to living quarters.

Day 2: Settling in

My first full day aboard the ISS is about acclimatization. Adapting to microgravity is a unique challenge. Simple tasks like eating and sleeping require adjustments. Our food is pre-packaged and often comes in pouches. Eating involves using velcro and magnetic tools to keep things in place. Sleeping is done in small, individual compartments, where we strap ourselves into sleeping bags to prevent floating around.

Day 5: Routine and research

Days aboard the ISS are structured and busy. Each astronaut follows a rigorous schedule that includes scientific experiments, maintenance, and exercise. Research is a significant part of our mission. We conduct experiments that can’t be done on Earth due to gravity. These range from studying the effects of microgravity on the human body to observing cosmic phenomena.

Day 10: The view from above

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of life on the ISS is the view of Earth. From the cupola, a dome-shaped observation module, we can see our planet in all its glory. The sight of continents, oceans, and weather patterns from space is breathtaking. It’s a constant reminder of the beauty and fragility of our home.

Day 15: Spacewalk

Today is a special day – my first spacewalk. After extensive training on Earth, it’s time to put it into practice. Wearing the bulky spacesuit and stepping outside the ISS is surreal. The vastness of space is both humbling and exhilarating. We work on repairs and upgrades, tethered to the station to prevent drifting away. The sense of accomplishment after completing a spacewalk is immense.

Day 20: Personal time

Even in space, personal time is essential. We stay connected with our families through video calls and emails. I spend my free time reading, listening to music, and taking photographs. Some astronauts enjoy watching movies or playing musical instruments. These moments of relaxation are crucial for mental well being.

Day 25: Health and fitness

Maintaining physical health in space is a priority. Without gravity, muscles and bones weaken over time, so daily exercise is mandatory. The ISS is equipped with a treadmill, stationary bike, and resistance exercise devices. These workouts help counteract the effects of microgravity and keep us fit.

Day 30: Team dynamics

Living in close quarters with a small group of people requires strong teamwork and communication. We come from different countries and backgrounds, but we share a common goal. Team meetings are held regularly to discuss our progress and address any issues. The camaraderie and mutual support are vital for a successful mission.

Day 35: Scientific discoveries

The research conducted on the ISS contributes to scientific knowledge in many fields. We’ve seen advancements in medicine, materials science, and environmental science. Some experiments involve growing plants in space to understand how they adapt to microgravity. Others look at the behavior of fluids and combustion in a weightless environment. Each discovery brings us closer to understanding the universe and improving life on Earth.

Day 40: Preparing for return

As the mission nears its end, preparations for returning to Earth begin. We conduct final experiments, secure equipment, and pack personal items. There’s a mix of excitement and sadness – eager to reunite with family and friends but knowing we’ll miss the extraordinary experience of living in space.

Day 45: Homecoming

The journey back to Earth is swift and intense. Re-entering the atmosphere, the spacecraft experiences extreme heat and forces. Landing safely, we are greeted by support teams who help us adjust to gravity again. Standing on solid ground feels strange after weeks of floating. The experience of living on the ISS leaves a lasting impact – a deeper appreciation for our planet and a sense of pride in contributing to space exploration.