Life in space is a unique blend of incredible fun and profound disorientation, according to Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla. His firsthand account from the International Space Station offers a rare glimpse into the daily realities of living in zero gravity.
The Fun Side of Zero Gravity
Shukla highlighted how astronauts find creative ways to adapt to and enjoy their weightless environment. One of the most memorable moments of fun involved the crew using one of their fellow astronauts as a human ball. They played a game by gently pushing their floating crewmate from one person to another, turning the spacecraft into an impromptu playground.
This playful activity, shared by Shukla via a video clip from inside the ISS, demonstrates how space crews maintain morale and camaraderie during long missions. The footage provides a captivating look at how fundamental human interactions, like play, are transformed in the absence of gravity.
The Challenge of Spatial Disorientation
Despite the fun, Shukla was candid about the challenges. He explicitly described the experience as "very disoriented." This disorientation is a common issue for newcomers to space, as the human brain's vestibular system, which helps with balance and spatial awareness, is confounded by the lack of an 'up' or 'down.'
This sensory confusion can lead to space adaptation syndrome, a condition similar to motion sickness, which many astronauts experience during their first few days in orbit. Learning to move, eat, and work effectively in this environment requires significant mental and physical adjustment.
A New Perspective from Orbit
The insights from Shubhanshu Shukla, shared on November 26, 2025, add a valuable human perspective to space exploration. They bridge the gap between scientific mission objectives and the personal, often overlooked, human experience of the astronauts themselves.
By sharing these moments, Shukla helps the public understand that while spaceflight is the pinnacle of scientific achievement, it is also a deeply human journey filled with both wonder and significant personal challenge.
