'If you're all happy on Earth, I'm happy': UAE astronaut on coping with psychological challenges in space

In a call with the media, Sultan AlNeyadi also opens up about his physical condition, exercise and other things

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KT photo by Neeraj Murali
by

Nandini Sircar

Published: Wed 12 Apr 2023, 11:16 PM

Last updated: Wed 12 Apr 2023, 11:40 PM

Addressing the media in UAE from the International Space Station (ISS), Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi on Wednesday, in a candid call to all the media representatives reiterated that “mentally he is in a good space” and maintaining a “constant body weight” physically.

The astronaut is scheduled to take a spacewalk on April 28.

The fact that he is in constant touch with his family and people on Earth via video calls, phone calls and emails on a daily basis has helped him to remain happy.

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“We have to spin the wheel in the Arab region and spread awareness about such expeditions. There are psychological challenges, but we have adapted well, while I am onboard the ISS I can communicate with my family on a daily basis through video and voice calls and even emails. If they are happy and if you all on Earth are happy, then I am happy,” says AlNeyadi.

He also averred that physically he is in good condition exercising and maintaining a steady body weight.

He adds, “My weight has been the same so far but if it changes then it needs to be addressed. I am checked by Dr Hanan Al Suwaidi. We have a treadmill and weights to lift on which we exercise. People who do not exercise can face problems later and may require rehabilitation. We are also exposed to radiation in space.”

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Nandini Sircar

Published: Wed 12 Apr 2023, 11:16 PM

Last updated: Wed 12 Apr 2023, 11:40 PM

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