Space Station Crew Member Discusses Life and Work Aboard the Outpost

TL;DR

Astronaut Kate Rubin discusses her experiences on the International Space Station, including her upcoming spacewalk and the unique challenges of living in space.

Transcript

Houston this is station we are ready for the event okay station this is Houston are you picking me up on two I am now I had to adjust the volume on the ATU I got you loud and clear okay we have you loud and clear as well and uh women of the hour this is Mission Control Houston please call station for a voice check station this is producer Barry fle... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥳 Astronauts on the International Space Station have busy days filled with experiments, maintenance tasks, and preparation for spacewalks.
• 👨‍🚀 The launch into space is an awe-inspiring experience that exceeds expectations and fills astronauts with disbelief.
• 👾 The smell of space, although present, is not something noteworthy or pleasant.
• 👨‍🚀 Seeing Earth from space provides a unique perspective, making astronauts feel connected to the planet.
• 👨‍🚀 Astronauts have the opportunity to stay connected with their family and friends through technology, even from outer space.
• 👨‍🚀 Being on the space station eliminates typical Earthly sensations, such as weather and natural scenery, which astronauts may miss.
• 😚 The closed-loop environmental system on the ISS allows for efficient recycling of resources and provides valuable insights for future space missions.

Questions & Answers

Q: What experiments are you currently working on aboard the International Space Station?

Currently, I am working on growing heart cells in space to study the effects of microgravity on cardiomyocytes. We observe them under a microscope as they beat in unison, providing valuable insights into the impact of space on cardiac health.

Q: How does the sensation of launching into space compare to your expectations?

The launch is a surreal experience. While the simulator prepares us, feeling the rocket lift off and being propelled into space at 17,500 mph is beyond imagination. It's an incredible rush mixed with the disbelief of actually being there.

Q: Can you describe the smell of space?

When we docked the SpaceX Dragon vehicle to the space station, we experienced a bit of the smell of space. It has a metallic scent, but it's not something remarkable or pleasant enough to be used for a candle.

Q: What are you most looking forward to during your upcoming spacewalk?

I am excited to be a part of the team that will add a docking adapter to the space station. It's incredible to witness the culmination of years of ground training and see the collective effort of NASA come together to achieve a significant milestone.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Astronaut Kate Rubin introduces herself and talks about her busy days conducting experiments and preparing for a spacewalk on the International Space Station.

• She reflects on her childhood dreams of becoming an astronaut and how she ended up on the ISS.

• Rubin describes the experience of launching into space and the sensory aspects of being in space, including the unique smell and the sight of Earth from the station's windows.

• She discusses the upcoming spacewalk and the excitement of adding new hardware to the station.

• Rubin shares the daily activities of astronauts on the ISS, which include scientific experiments, maintenance tasks, and enjoying the view of Earth from the cupola.

• She talks about the incredible experience of seeing auroras from space and the perspective it gives her on Earth.

• Rubin explains how her relationship with Earth has changed since being on the ISS and describes the sense of connectedness she feels when observing the planet.

• She discusses the process of joining the ISS crew and the advice she received from fellow astronauts.

• Rubin expresses that she doesn't feel lonely on the space station due to the constant interaction and teamwork with her crewmates.

• She explains that there's no need for a private space in the confines of the ISS, as the work itself and the view of Earth are captivating enough.

• Rubin highlights the use of technology and apps to stay connected with family and friends and mentions missing the sensations of being outside, such as the sounds and smells of nature.