An astronaut lands at Hallfield

During launch, it feels like 3 people are sitting on your chest. You have to think really hard about breathing and expanding your ribcage as the pressure is so great. This phase lasts a matter of minutes. As soon as we reach orbit, there’s huge relief with yelling, high fives and back slaps! And that’s when we get to fly around like superman!

Yes, I did. 40% of astronauts will feel unwell during the first few days of space travel. After a few days you adjust. You get a similar feeling when you return to Earth as well.

Yes it does as there’s no fresh air – everything has to be recycled. When I first entered the International Space Station, it smelt like a sweaty gym! But after a day or so you adjust.

Mission control send up each astronaut’s schedule every morning. The day is scheduled in 5 minute intervals with time spent conducting experiments, exercising, researching and operating robotics. We also have free time and time to eat and sleep and contact our families.

The view. Looking out the window is mesmerizing. As well as 16 sunrises and sunsets every day, you see all sorts of weather, erupting volcanoes, deserts and city lights that glow like diamonds scattered on black velvet. I always enjoyed looking out for my home town or countries I’ve visited.

No! But I do think extra-terrestrial life exists.

Every-day tasks are much more complicated in space, including going to the bathroom! You have to strap yourself onto the toilet, ensuring you get a good seal. A fan at the bottom then helps the waste move down in the absence of gravity.