The greatest challenge is not the absence of gravity itself, but the ability to function within a highly demanding schedule while maintaining accuracy and focus – explains Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski. The daily rhythm on the International Space Station combines science and routine: time is carefully planned, and each day is a mix of experiments, equipment maintenance, and ordinary activities. 

A typical day begins with health checks: blood pressure, cardiovascular parameters, oxygen saturation, and other indicators. The Columbus module contains equipment such as the European Physiology Modules (EPM), which enable research into cardiovascular and neurological functions. This stage requires precise setup, calibration, and cooperation with ground teams—before experiments begin, every sensor must be verified. After the morning routine comes breakfast: freeze-dried meals or ready-to-use food, drinks prepared from powders or special mixes, all in secure packaging to prevent floating particles in microgravity.

When the astronaut is ready, scientific work begins. In Columbus, ESA’s dedicated laboratory on the ISS, several specialized racks are available: Biolab (for microorganisms, tissue and plant cultures), the Fluid Science Laboratory (studying fluid behavior in microgravity), the European Drawer Rack (a flexible platform for experiments), and the European Transport Carrier, along with external platforms such as EuTEF, which are exposed directly to the conditions of outer space. Working with these experiments requires careful preparation: connecting cables, ensuring compatible interfaces, and confirming that power, cooling, and data transfer systems operate correctly.

The middle of the day often involves maintenance of the station. In Columbus this may mean checking cooling systems, cleaning air filters, inspecting power panels, or monitoring laboratory workstations. Even small particles or contamination could disturb biological experiments or sensors, so everything must follow strict procedures.

Each astronaut devotes about two hours daily to physical exercise. Standard ISS equipment includes the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED), a treadmill, and an ergometer. These devices help train muscles and bones, which otherwise lose strength and density quickly in microgravity. In Columbus, research into physical fitness is combined with biomedical studies—for example, EPM monitors cardiovascular and metabolic responses during exercise.

Evenings bring the close of scientific and maintenance tasks. Astronauts shut down equipment, archive data, and send reports to ground centers. Columbus connects daily with the Columbus Control Centre in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany. There, User Support and Operations Centres teams analyze data, monitor experiments, and provide instructions to astronauts when needed.

After the official end of the workday, astronauts finally have personal time. Dinner, moments of relaxation while gazing at Earth through the windows, conversations with family, music, reading, or watching films all help maintain psychological balance. Group activities such as watching educational broadcasts or sports events support morale and crew cohesion. Shared meals are more than practical—they create bonds and reduce tension. Astronauts also keep living spaces organized, monitor food supplies, and ensure that every detail supports the smooth functioning of the station.

It is worth noting that Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski’s mission differed from Tibor Kapu’s, as Sławosz is an ESA project astronaut, which provided him with specific training and opportunities related to the European module. Meanwhile, Tibor’s mission was independently prepared by Hungary, and his training included, among other things, Star City, which influenced the Hungarian astronaut’s activities on the ISS.

When Columbus completed its 100,000th orbit of Earth on September 12, 2025, it marked not only a technical milestone but also proof that this European laboratory in orbit has matured into a reliable platform for long-term science. What might seem like routine tasks—checking sensors, exercising, preparing samples—has over the years produced a steady flow of results that support medicine, industry, and future exploration. Thanks to modules like Columbus, Europe plays a tangible role in space exploration, turning the monotony of daily tasks into lasting progress.