In low Earth orbit can be found the International Space Station — a large laboratory where astronauts from different countries live and work together while circling Earth every 90 minutes. What began as a project involving the United States, Russia, Europe, Japan, and Canada is today a strong symbol of cooperation among countries for the future of space exploration. So far, over 290 people from 26 countries have visited the ISS.
International Space Station | Photo Credit: Flickr
The ISS is mainly used for scientific research as it provides something quite difficult to find on Earth — the lack of gravity. It enables us to study how living in space affects the human body, how materials behave in microgravity, and how plants, fluids, and technology perform beyond Earth.
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. | Photo Credit: Flickr
Inside the ISS, there are mainly 7 crew cabins or sleeping quarters, two bathrooms, a gym, and a large 360-degree, 7-window bay observation window called Cupola.
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. Astronauts and cosmonauts follow a carefully planned routine that includes scientific experiments, maintenance tasks, communication with Earth, and spacewalks when necessary. They also take photographs of Earth, providing people below with stunning views of our planet from above. To counteract the harmful effects of microgravity on their muscles and bones, they must exercise for about two hours each day.
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. | Photo Credit: Flickr
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. | Photo Credit: Flickr
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. | Photo Credit: Flickr
Life on the International Space Station (ISS) is unique yet monotonous. | Photo Credit: PTI
Published - July 20, 2026 11:01 am IST