Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who journeyed to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2022 as part of the Axiom Mission 4, has recently released an engaging video illustrating how astronauts maintain personal hygiene in a zero-gravity environment. Shukla, the second Indian to travel to the ISS following Rakesh Sharma, amusingly addresses the curiosity surrounding daily routines in space, especially regarding activities like brushing teeth and bathing.

Methods of Bathing in Microgravity

Astronauts on the ISS do not have the luxury of traditional showers, as water droplets can float away, creating complications in microgravity. Instead, Shukla introduced an ingenious method of cleaning oneself with minimal water usage. He demonstrated the use of a sealed bag containing a special washcloth pre-treated with cleansing shampoo. By adding a small amount of water to this cloth, he was able to perform a quick sponge bath, effectively wiping himself clean without the extensive use of water.

Recycling Water in Space

After the sponge bath, questions arise about what happens to the used water and washcloth. Shukla explained that nothing is wasted aboard the ISS. The wet towel is sent to a specialized system that extracts moisture and recycles it. This advanced setup allows over 90 percent of the recycled water to be reused for drinking and other necessary purposes. Shukla humorously referred to this process as the “world’s most expensive sponge bath,” emphasizing the careful management of resources at an altitude of 400 kilometers above Earth.

Daily Life and Time Management in Space

In addition to hygiene practices, Shukla showcased how everyday items interact with the lack of gravity. He allowed his phone to float freely, highlighting that objects do not fall in microgravity, thus rendering phone holders unnecessary in the station. For maintaining a structured routine, he adhered to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), despite the ISS orbiting Earth multiple times a day.

Toothbrushing Techniques in Space

Brushing teeth in space closely resembles the process on Earth, although astronauts utilize a special NASA-approved toothpaste that is intended to be swallowed rather than spat out. Shukla’s light-hearted social media post attracted significant attention, addressing common inquiries about life aboard the ISS while also reinforcing India’s expanding involvement in international space exploration.

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