Living Among the Stars: What Life Is Really Like on the Space Station

From floating breakfasts to zero-gravity science, astronauts aboard the International Space Station are redefining the future of human life in space — and the UAE is playing a growing role.

Science & Innovation | July 2025

Life in space may sound like science fiction, but for astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS), it’s just another day at the (orbital) office.

Orbiting Earth at 28,000 km/h, the ISS serves as a unique laboratory, observation post, and testbed for future missions to the Moon and Mars. But beyond the science lies a more human story — of adaptation, teamwork, and living without gravity.

As the UAE continues its historic investment in space exploration, including missions by Emirati astronauts, interest in daily life aboard the ISS is growing rapidly among young students, scientists, and future explorers.

🛰️ A Day in Orbit: The New Normal

Onboard the ISS, day and night blur into 16 sunrises a day. Astronauts follow a strict routine packed with:

• Scientific experiments in microgravity (from DNA research to fluid dynamics)

• Daily exercise to prevent bone and muscle loss

• International video calls with mission control

• And yes — even space selfies and floating coffee breaks

Every task, from brushing teeth to sleeping, is modified for a world where nothing stays put — not even the toothpaste.

🇦🇪 The UAE’s Place in the Stars

The UAE’s space program has made history, with astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi becoming the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-duration mission on the ISS.

“We are not just visitors in space — we are contributors to humanity’s future,” said Al Neyadi during a live call with UAE students from orbit.

Through the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), the UAE continues to invest in astronaut training, science outreach, and lunar exploration programs — inspiring a new generation of Arab space scientists.

🔬 Science That Can’t Be Done on Earth

On the ISS, astronauts are helping unlock answers to Earth’s biggest questions:

• How do bones weaken in zero gravity, and what does that mean for osteoporosis?

• Can we grow food on future Mars missions?

• How do human brains adapt to space — and how can that help with neurological research?

🌍 Life Lessons from Low Earth Orbit

Astronauts often return with a renewed sense of global unity and planetary fragility.

“From up here, there are no borders — only one Earth,” said NASA astronaut Christina Koch during her record-setting mission.

As Earth faces climate change, resource scarcity, and technological upheaval, the ISS reminds us of what’s possible when nations collaborate beyond politics and gravity.

🚀 What’s Next for the UAE in Space?

• Mars Science City project underway in Dubai

• More Emirati astronauts in training for future missions

• Active participation in NASA’s Artemis lunar program

• Continued research partnerships aboard the ISS and beyond

🧑‍🚀 Final Word: Humanity’s Frontier is Expanding

Life aboard the ISS is not just about survival in space — it’s about building a sustainable future for all of us. As the UAE deepens its commitment to space science, it’s clear that the journey to the stars now begins right here in the Emirates.