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The life of an astronaut in outer space is a special one. Astronauts must be prepared to face space and its peculiarities. Astronauts must possess a thorough knowledge of space science, including celestial mechanics and rocketry.
They are selected based on their capacity to meet the physical and mental challenges of the space program. They then undergo intense ground training which provides conditions similar to that encountered in space. For example, they learn how to function in cramped spaces while they are wearing spacesuits. They are also placed in huge centrigues to investigated their reactions during a potential lift-off. In addition, they often remain in isolation chambers in order to examine their reactions to solitude. They are, in fact, trained to deal with every type of spatial exercise.

Astronauts' space suits are components of man-made materials, for example, urethane-coated nylon. These space suits provide astronauts with oxygen, water, toilet facilities, communication devices, among other features.
In a space station, astronauts are compelled to exercise regularly since muscles can waste away because they do not have to resist gravity in space. The lack of gravity also means scientists have to strap themselves to walls while working in order not to float away.
Astronauts must prepare themselves whey they are required to travel far from their shuttles since, due to microgravity, they can lose their tools or drift away. Therefore, astronauts receive special backpacks in which rockets are built. These backpacks are controlled by devices similar to joysticks and they resemble floating armchairs.
Despite many physical provisions made for astronauts to withstand difficult conditions of zero gravity, astronauts have to prepare themselves psychologically for the fact that there is no proper day and night on a station. An example of this is on Mir where the sun rises and sets every 90 minutes.

Writing tip: "Tell Me About" (2002) Chancellor Press.

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