A Unique Week Aboard the ISS

The week of June 9-13 proved to be a unique time for the Expedition 73 crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as they navigated lighter workloads due to a delay in the arrival of a visiting crew. With more time on their hands, astronauts engaged in reflection on their work and celebrated personal milestones during their orbit.

Humbled by the Final Frontier

Jonny Kim, a flight engineer with an extraordinary background as a U.S. Navy SEAL and medical doctor, shared profound thoughts on his experiences in space. According to Kim, "Space is one of the most humbling environments I’ve operated in." He elaborated on the complexities of conducting maintenance onboard the ISS, where the absence of gravity turns the simplest tasks into challenges. Tasks like cleaning air filters or swapping chipsets for the lab's network servers require meticulous planning to avoid losing tools in the vastness of space.

Innovative Science Experiments Underway

This week, the crew engaged in significant scientific research initiatives. For instance, Anne McClain and Nichole Myers undertook their first eye exams using an ultrasound device, evaluating the structural changes to their eyes due to time in microgravity, while Expedition 73 Commander Takuya Onishi took crucial steps to improve fire safety for future missions.

Keeping the ISS in Tip-Top Shape

Amidst scientific pursuits, the crew meticulously maintained the station's essential systems. Jonny Kim and Takuya Onishi worked on enhancing the European Exploration Exercise Device (E4D), vital for future lunar missions. They also addressed hygiene needs, with McClain tending to the tanks of the station's bathroom, ensuring everything was functioning properly without the typical terrestrial conveniences.

Celebrating Achievements in Space

This week was also a time for celebration. Anne McClain joyfully marked her 46th birthday in the company of her crewmates, enjoying cards, gifts, and a cake. Moreover, she commemorated the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army with a touching conversation with Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, proudly representing her service as an active colonel.

Addressing Challenges on Board

Despite the upbeat atmosphere, the crew faced ongoing challenges, particularly concerning hatch seals in the Russian segment. An earlier concern regarding air leaks from the Zvezda service module led to NASA and Axiom Space postponing the launch of the Axiom Mission 4, allowing for further repairs to be planned.

Current Crew Onboard the ISS

As of Friday, June 13, the ISS was home to seven astronauts from three different space agencies, working diligently to expand our knowledge of life beyond Earth. The station also hosted two crewed spacecraft and two cargo vessels, ensuring a steady stream of supplies and support as they venture into the cosmos.