Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk embarked on his journey to the International Space Station (ISS) 11 days ago for a six-month mission in space. During his first media Q&A from space on Tuesday, Kutryk expressed his excitement, mentioning that he is still adapting to life in space. Simple tasks like sleeping, eating, and using tools have posed new challenges for him in microgravity, making him feel like a young child learning basic life skills again. Despite the frustrations, Kutryk finds joy and satisfaction in the experience, considering himself fortunate to be part of the mission.
Apart from the thrill of being in space, Kutryk has been actively engaged in scientific experiments, focusing on mental health studies and monitoring his vital signs. This space mission marks Kutryk’s debut in space, following closely after Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s recent mission around the moon.
In a statement, Kutryk emphasized the significance of Canada’s involvement in space exploration, hoping it will inspire innovation and a brighter future for the country. He encouraged Canadians to recognize the potential for collaboration between industry, academia, and commercial entities in advancing space technology and driving innovation.
During the media session, Kutryk mentioned observing various parts of Canada from space, including crossing over Vancouver and passing over Quebec. He also marveled at witnessing the spectacular northern lights display. Reflecting on his time on the ISS, Kutryk acknowledged the importance of exercise and nutrition in space living, underscoring the focus on astronaut health in the experiments conducted onboard.
One noteworthy Canadian experiment on board is “T-Bone,” utilizing 3D technology to analyze changes in astronauts’ bone health. Kutryk stressed that Canada’s participation in space exploration is crucial for reaping benefits and continuing the country’s strong legacy in space endeavors. He emphasized the importance of sustaining Canada’s role in space missions for future advancements and discoveries.