Former NASA astronaut Cady Coleman, one of the privileged few who have spent over 150 days living on the International Space Station, recently shared her experiences and insights in a conversation with John Yang. Coleman, a veteran of two space shuttle missions, delved into her new book titled ‘Sharing Space: An Astronaut’s Guide to Mission, Wonder, and Making Change.’

With fewer than 300 individuals having visited the ISS, the opportunity to witness Earth from the station’s Cupola is becoming increasingly rare as NASA plans to de-orbit the space station by 2030. Coleman’s unique perspective sheds light on the joys and challenges of life in space.

During her six-month mission on the ISS, Coleman found the zero gravity environment to be exhilarating rather than daunting. She described the experience as a ‘whole new way of life,’ emphasizing the freedom of movement and the sensation of flying across the station with a simple push.

Unlike some astronauts who prefer to be tethered while sleeping, Coleman opted to float freely in her sleeping chamber, integrating the sensation of zero gravity into every aspect of her daily routine. She highlighted the continuous presence of zero gravity as a defining feature of life on the ISS.

Reflecting on her time in space, Coleman expressed a deep fondness for the experience, stating that she didn’t want to return to Earth at the end of her mission. She shared how living in a zero G environment offered a unique perspective and a sense of freedom that transcended the challenges and stresses of space travel.

Coleman’s book, ‘Sharing Space,’ not only chronicles her personal journey as an astronaut but also explores the broader themes of mission, wonder, and the potential for creating positive change. Her insights offer a glimpse into the extraordinary world of space exploration and the profound impact it can have on individuals.

As the number of individuals venturing into space remains limited, Coleman’s firsthand account provides a valuable glimpse into the realities of life aboard the ISS and the transformative power of space travel. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience, curiosity, and spirit of exploration that drive astronauts to push the boundaries of human experience.