What do astronauts do in space
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Astronaut Activities in Space
Human Performance and Manual Operations
Astronauts have demonstrated exceptional human performance capabilities in space, comparable to those of test pilots on Earth. They have successfully taken over vital control functions and manually overridden malfunctioning automatic equipment during missions, contributing significantly to mission success . Future missions are expected to involve more complex activities, including longer durations and increased mobility within the spacecraft to perform maintenance and scientific experiments .
Daily Life and Psychological Well-being
NASA plays a crucial role in establishing schedules and facilitating communication for astronauts, helping them maintain a semblance of daily life similar to Earth. Astronauts personalize their leisure time, connect with life on Earth through window observations, and celebrate traditions and historical events. Families also support astronauts by maintaining communication and sending care packages, which help astronauts cope with the isolation and stress of space missions .
Physical Fitness and Exercise
Long-duration spaceflights lead to deconditioning of the neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems, which can impair physical fitness and mission success. To counteract this, astronauts engage in resistance and aerobic exercises for about 2.5 hours daily, six to seven days a week, using specialized equipment on the International Space Station (ISS). This regimen helps maintain their fitness levels, which is crucial for performing tasks such as extravehicular activities (EVAs), equipment repairs, and emergency responses .
Extravehicular Activities (EVAs)
EVAs, or spacewalks, are critical for various mission objectives, including scientific experiments, repairs, and the assembly and maintenance of the ISS. These activities are physically demanding due to factors like dynamic weightlessness and the use of pressurized spacesuits. Special training and equipment, such as hand exoskeletons, are used to assist astronauts in overcoming these challenges and reducing hand fatigue 457.
Cognitive and Neurological Challenges
Spaceflight affects astronauts' brains, leading to issues with movement, balance, and coordination upon returning to Earth. These changes are attributed to the lack of gravity, which makes everyday tasks more challenging. Research is ongoing to understand these effects better and develop strategies to keep astronauts healthy during long missions .
Leisure and Recreation
To counteract the monotony and heavy workloads, astronauts engage in various leisure activities, including physical exercise, media consumption, Earth observation, and playing games. These activities help maintain mental alertness, manual dexterity, and social interactions among the crew, contributing to overall well-being .
Sleep and Neurobehavioral Functions
Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining optimal neurobehavioral functions. However, astronauts often experience sleep deficiencies, leading to degraded performance, elevated stress, and higher workloads. Ensuring longer and better-quality sleep can significantly improve their cognitive functions and overall health during missions .
Conclusion
Astronauts perform a wide range of activities in space, from manual operations and scientific experiments to physical exercise and leisure activities. Maintaining physical fitness, cognitive health, and psychological well-being are crucial for mission success. Continuous research and advancements in training, equipment, and support systems are essential to address the unique challenges of living and working in space.
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