For the past quarter-century, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have marked the holidays with unique celebrations 250 miles above Earth. While their circumstances differ dramatically – traveling at 17,500 mph and orbiting the planet every 90 minutes – the spirit of the season remains remarkably familiar.
Special Meals in Zero Gravity
Astronauts don’t miss out on traditional holiday fare, thanks to the Space Food Systems Laboratory at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Crews work with nutritionists and food scientists to pre-select their menus before launch. Deliveries arriving before holidays include specially packaged foods like clams, oysters, green beans, smoked salmon, candies, almond butter, and hummus. There are some quirks, though: seltzer and salt are prohibited due to the challenges of liquid behavior and corrosion in space.
Staying Connected to Earth
Despite the physical distance, connection to home remains a priority. NASA astronauts regularly use video calls to speak with loved ones during the holidays, reinforcing the idea that “even in space, home is never far away.” These interactions are not just personal; they demonstrate the broader human connection that space exploration embodies.
A Quarter-Century of Orbital Traditions
The ISS has hosted holiday celebrations continuously for 25 years, fostering a tradition of festive cheer in an environment unlike any other. In a recent message recorded on December 23, 2024, astronauts Suni Williams, Nick Hague, Butch Wilmore, and Don Pettit extended their warmest holiday wishes to Earth, highlighting the enduring bond between those in orbit and those below.
These celebrations serve as a potent reminder that even in the most extreme environments, human connection and tradition endure. The ISS holidays demonstrate how we adapt, celebrate, and maintain our shared humanity beyond the confines of our planet.
