NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently arrived at the International Space Station aboard a new aircraft for her third flight in space. Read on to find out how Williams and other astronauts stay mentally and physically healthy while in space.
Williams has already spent more than a day in space since the successful launch on June 5.
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams of Indian origin has successfully arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft on her third visit to the orbital platform. Williams has already spent more than a day in space since her successful launch on an Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Command Station in Florida, USA on June 5.
Upon arriving at the ISS, Williams, 59, had a little “dance party” and hugged the seven other crew members. “I’m so grateful to my family and friends who made it through this,” she said. [moment] “We haven’t been together for a long time, and I’m glad we’re not together anymore. It’s just so nice to have another family here,” said Williams, who has been to the ISS twice.
How do astronauts maintain their health while on the ISS?
According to the ISS, astronauts on space missions undergo extensive health care before, during and after their long-term missions, and are required to exercise and work regularly, sponge bathe and undergo medical training for at least two to three hours each day in space.
According to NASA, medical officers are also responsible for any medical emergencies, and all astronauts are trained in emergency resuscitation.
There are various strategies, tools and training that help astronauts stay physically and mentally healthy, including:
According to NASA, astronauts exercise at least two hours a day using a variety of equipment. The intense exercise is done to counteract the negative effects that space can have on the body, but research shows that being active and eating a healthy diet can have a positive effect on the mind.
According to NASA, astronauts will have access to resistance exercise equipment for weight training, as well as aerobic exercise equipment such as treadmills and ergometers.
Prolonged sleep deprivation can lead to mental and physical health issues, and life on a complex spacecraft can be stressful: According to NASA, astronauts aboard the International Space Station witness 16 sunrises and sunsets a day, disrupting our body clocks and sleep cycles.
That’s why special LED lighting, noise-canceling earphones, sleep masks, cozy sleep pods and relaxation time have been specifically built into the schedule to reduce the risk of sleep interruptions and discomfort in space.
According to NASA, an astronaut’s daily work schedule is designed to mimic daily life on Earth as much as possible, consisting of five work days and two rest days. During rest, astronauts often relax by reading, playing an instrument, or listening to their favorite music. They can also spend time connecting with loved ones, writing, meditating, or practicing religious traditions.
Some astronauts keep diaries, which helps them reduce anxiety and stress and helps researchers study behavioral problems and evaluate the mental and emotional state of people during long periods of isolation and confinement.
According to NASA, astronauts cannot submerge in water, so they regularly take sponge baths with towels and use leave-in shampoos.
Designated medical personnel will be trained in first aid, suturing wounds and giving injections. Astronauts will also be trained to deal with any health problems they may have.
Astronauts eat rehydrating foods, pre-packaged foods, and canned foods, all of which are nutritious and healthy.
