How do astronauts on Shenzhou 6 eat? They have many delicious foods, but it’s uncertain how appetizing they are in space…
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Drink Pouch |
According to Bai Shumin, the meal designer for the Shenzhou 6 astronauts and a researcher at the Aerospace Medical Engineering Research Institute, during the flight, astronauts will enjoy meals similar to those they have at home, featuring their favorite dishes. The food provided is not fast food; it must meet standards for color, flavor, aroma, and appearance to ensure a satisfying meal for the astronauts.
The orbital module and the reentry capsule of the spacecraft have different functions. The orbital module has more space, so astronauts typically spend most of their flight time there. As a result, more food is stored in this module to ensure their nutritional balance. This regular food is similar to what they usually consume on Earth, including fried rice with vegetables, drinks, dried fruits and vegetables, snacks, seasonings, and they even have the option to brew tea.
When the orbital module and reentry capsule separate, astronauts seated in the reentry capsule returning to Earth have meals that are designed for urgent situations. While most of the food is similar to that in the orbital module, the reentry capsule lacks a water tank, so dehydrated foods like dried fruits and vegetables are not provided. Instead, they must consume solid foods and drink water from special pouches. Experts have also prepared some emergency food in the reentry capsule for situations where the capsule does not return to the planned orbit or lands in a different location. In such cases, astronauts can use emergency food that comes in the form of compressed cakes.
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| Food Tray with Straps |
The environment in the spacecraft can cause various reactions in astronauts’ bodies. For example, their throats may swell, their sense of taste may diminish, and their sense of smell can become less sensitive. Additionally, the congestion in their noses can create a sensation similar to that of having a cold, and the lack of airflow in the cabin means astronauts can only see the food without smelling its aroma. Although astronauts may not feel hungry, they still need to ensure they consume their meals to maintain nutritional balance. The food tray designed for astronauts features special straps at the bottom; when eating, the straps can be wrapped around their thighs to secure the tray.
According to Mr. Fu Lam, the designer and former head of the life support and environmental control systems for the spacecraft, for the first time, the Shenzhou 6 has a food heating device shaped like a large clip. This clip is used to hold sealed food pouches and connect to a power source. After about 30 minutes, it can heat 140 grams of rice to the appropriate temperature. The heating device operates at approximately 300W. While it takes about 10 minutes to heat food on Earth, the heating time in the reentry capsule is extended due to poor airflow in the cabin.
Xue Nhung (According to Xinhua News Agency)
