Astronaut Facts for Kids
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Astronauts are trained individuals who travel to space to conduct research, learn more about the universe, and explore new worlds. These brave men and women have contributed greatly to our understanding of space and the universe. Here are some interesting astronaut facts for kids:
1. The first man to travel to space was Yuri Gagarin in 1961. He orbited Earth for 108 minutes.
2. The first American astronaut to travel to space was Alan Shepard in 1961. He was the fifth human to go into space.
3. Astronauts have to undergo extensive training to prepare for space travel. This includes physical fitness, mental preparation, and emergency training.
4. Astronauts wear special suits to protect them from the harsh environment of space. These suits include life support systems, oxygen supply, and cooling systems.
5. Astronauts live and work on the International Space Station (ISS) for months at a time. They conduct scientific experiments, repair equipment, and maintain the ISS.
6. The average stay of an astronaut on the ISS is around 6 months.
7. The longest stay in space by an astronaut was by Valeri Polyakov, who spent 437 days on the Mir space station.
8. Astronauts experience weightlessness in space due to the absence of gravity. This can be disorienting and affect their balance.
9. Astronauts cannot use normal toilets in space. Instead, they use special suction-equipped toilets that convert waste into water.
10. Astronauts have a special diet in space that consists of pre-packaged foods that are easy to prepare.