Sleep in Space: A Former NASA Astronaut’s Experience
Summary
In this article, we explore the experiences of former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino with sleeping in space. Massimino discusses the challenges of adjusting to sleeping in zero gravity, the unique sleeping arrangements on the space shuttle and space station, and the importance of sleep for astronauts’ health.
Table of Contents
- Adjusting to Sleeping in Space
- Sleeping Arrangements on the Space Shuttle and Space Station
- Making Sleeping in Space More Comfortable
- Personal Items for Sleep
- Waking Up in Space
Adjusting to Sleeping in Space
Massimino describes the eerie feeling of waking up in space, with no sense of up or down and the strange lighting. However, he also notes the incredible feeling of being a spaceman during a spacewalk. Sleep is essential for astronauts’ health, and while it may be harder to adjust to sleeping in space initially, Massimino found it to be the best sleeping experience he’s ever had.
Sleeping Arrangements on the Space Shuttle and Space Station
On the space shuttle, crew members slept in sleeping bags on the flight deck or mid-deck, with limited privacy. On the space station, there is a sleep station that resembles a closet, with a mounted sleeping bag, space for personal items, and more privacy. Crew members can wear whatever they feel comfortable in and control the temperature. The sleeping bag is made of canvas and has a pillow attached with Velcro. Astronauts wear gym shorts, t-shirts, socks, and a wool hat to keep warm. Earplugs are also used to block out the constant noise of machinery and communication systems.
Making Sleeping in Space More Comfortable
Sleep studies are conducted to gather data on activity and sleep cycles. Overall, the basic idea is to close your eyes and go to sleep, but there are many ways to make sleeping in space more comfortable. Astronauts use hooks and straps to attach their sleeping bags to prevent them from floating around. Massimino notes that crew members can bring personal items like teddy bears to make the experience more comfortable.
Personal Items for Sleep
When traveling to space, astronauts must pack their personal items for sleep, such as earplugs and sleep masks. These can be provided by professionals if needed. Some astronauts may use mild sleep medication to help them get rest in the beginning.
Waking Up in Space
Wake-up music is played on the space shuttle, with each crew member having their own selection chosen by their family. On the space station, an alarm is set to wake up the astronauts. With 16 sunrises and sunsets every 24 hours, the astronauts do not tell time by light and dark but by the clock or mission elapsed time.
Conclusion
Sleeping in space presents unique challenges for astronauts, but with the right adjustments and personal items, it can be a comfortable and restful experience. As Massimino notes, sleep is essential for astronauts’ health, and it’s important to make sure they get the rest they need while orbiting the Earth.
