Living in Space

How do astronauts live on the space station, and could people live on Mars?

An exploration of how astronauts survive in microgravity on the ISS and the challenges of potentially living on the harsh surface of Mars.

Check your understanding

1. Why do astronauts on the International Space Station need to exercise for two hours every day?
- A. To keep the station's machines running smoothly
- B. To stop their bones and muscles from getting weak
- C. To practice moving in heavy spacesuits
- D. To stay warm in the cold space environment
2. Why do astronauts eat tortillas instead of bread on the space station?
- A. Tortillas are easier to grow in space
- B. Tortillas taste better in microgravity
- C. Bread creates crumbs that could float into filters or eyes
- D. Tortillas keep water from turning into floating orbs
3. What happens to water if you pour it into a glass in space?
- A. It stays in the glass because of magnets
- B. It flows upward and disappears
- C. It forms a round, floating orb of water
- D. It immediately turns into ice
4. How do astronauts sleep on the International Space Station?
- A. They float freely around the station
- B. They sleep in sleeping bags strapped to the wall
- C. They wear weighted suits to press them into mattresses
- D. They sleep in chairs with seatbelts

1. Why would humans on Mars likely live in habitats buried under the soil?
- A. To stay closer to the water ice found in the ground
- B. To protect them from dangerous radiation from the sun
- C. To hide from the harsh wind storms on the surface
- D. To avoid having to build windows and doors
2. How does technology act as 'artificial biology' for humans in space?
- A. It helps us evolve to grow gills and thick hides
- B. It is used to make space food taste like Earth food
- C. It replaces the natural systems we have on Earth, like breathing and protection
- D. It is used to train our brains to be more curious
3. Why is it dangerous to step outside on Mars without a special spacesuit?
- A. The air is too hot and would cause burns
- B. The low pressure and lack of oxygen would be instantly fatal
- C. There is no gravity to keep you on the surface
- D. The toxic dust would make you sneeze uncontrollably
4. What is the main reason scientists continue to explore space despite the dangers?
- A. To find enough gold to make everyone on Earth rich
- B. To learn how to hide from environmental problems on Earth
- C. To be better than other countries at building rockets
- D. Because humans have a natural curiosity to explore the unknown

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