Astronauts Nicole Mann and Kjell Lindgren gave a video tour to commemorate 25 years of continuous human habitation on the International Space Station (ISS).

Recorded in 2022, the 15-minute tour highlights the ISS's multimodular design, research facilities, gym, and living quarters. The 250-mile-high station rotates every 90 minutes, giving astronauts 16 sunrises per day.

Typically, crews of six stay for six months, during which time they observe the Earth and undertake scientific study. Despite occasional dangers like space debris, the ISS is safe. When they deorbit in 2030, new commercial space stations will continue their legacy.

25 Years of the ISS: Orbiting Together

The International Space Station (ISS), celebrating 25 years of continuous human presence in 2025, serves as a scientific laboratory and cultural archive, supporting deep space mission preparations and NASA’s Artemis programme while symbolising human connection, creativity, and resilience in orbit.

Since its inception, the ISS has hosted 290 visitors from 26 countries, fostering a diverse community where astronauts exchange traditions and celebrate holidays. Festive practices include wearing special socks, Halloween costumes, and using adapted menorahs.

Cultural exchanges during meals, such as French astronaut Thomas Pesquet's macarons and Japanese sushi parties, foster companionship and represent the international partnership required for the station's success.

Cultural Expression & Music

Music has a huge impact on astronaut well-being and cultural interchange, with numerous instruments carried to the International Space Station since 2001. Notable performances include cross-continent collaborations like Catherine Coleman's with Jethro Tull and Luca Parmitano's DJ set from orbit.

Expedition 55 even included a jam session with improvised instruments, illustrating the importance of science and art in connecting astronauts to Earth and one another.

Views from Astronauts & the Overview Effect

The ISS provides astronauts with a unique view of Earth through the Cupola's windows, resulting in the “overview effect.” This experience highlights Earth's fragility and absence of borders, encouraging meditation on humanity's interconnectedness and the significance of planetary protection. Returning astronauts share their perspectives, helping the public understand the broader ramifications of spaceflight.

Recording the Science & Beauty of Earth

Over the last 25 years, astronauts have taken millions of images in orbit, serving both artistic and scientific purposes. Furthermore, these photos record natural disasters and urban growth, assisting NASA's Crew Earth Observations and Disaster Response programs with recovery and climate models. Astronauts choose the Cupola for introspection, emphasising the ISS's position as a scientific observatory and source of inspiration.

Ground Teams & Common Customs

Behind every mission is a dedicated team of engineers, scientists, and communicators that place safety and success first. Mission control celebrates milestones with astronauts, chess matches, and ceremonies.

Notably, Expedition 73, which symbolises humanity's ongoing presence in orbit, commemorated the 25th anniversary. Additionally, ground troops encourage customs like “MERloween,” which reflect on accomplishments and new perspectives. These initiatives highlight the cooperation and commitment that will propel next Moon and Mars expeditions.

Beyond Earth: Art & Human Connection

Creativity has thrived on the ISS, most notably through Nicole Stott, the first astronaut to watercolour in space and the founder of the Space for Art Foundation. This foundation's Spacesuit Art Project enables youngsters receiving cancer treatment to create artwork that is then transformed into unique spacesuits.

Astronauts have worn suits named Hope, Courage, and Dreamer during downlinks to encourage patients and raise awareness about the humanitarian aspects of space travel.

Persistent Legacy

The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a complete record of human activities in space, displaying science, culture, and creativity through numerous community traditions and creative expressions.

As NASA prepares for future Artemis flights, information gleaned from the ISS will let humans explore the Moon and Mars. Celebrating 25 years, the station highlights that discovery goes beyond technology, emphasising solidarity, resilience, and optimism.

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