A typical day aboard the ISS
Daily life on the International Space Station blends scheduled science, maintenance, exercise, and personal time. Crew schedules are carefully planned but include flexibility to address urgent tasks.
Daily activities usually include:
- Scientific experiments and payload operations.
- Systems maintenance and station upkeep.
- Two hours of exercise to counteract microgravity effects.
- Meal times, hygiene, and communication with family.
Work-rest balance and living arrangements
- Crew members follow a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle coordinated with mission control.
- Private sleeping quarters provide personal space and communication links to Earth.
- Leisure time is used for reading, watching movies, photography, and Earth observation.
Life aboard the ISS emphasizes teamwork, safety, and efficiency while providing unique opportunities to conduct research and experience daily life in microgravity.