Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30738: Train Like an Astronaut: ESA’s Mission X Brings Space Fitness to Schools

ESA’s Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut is an education and outreach project designed to engage children with the physical and scientific aspects of space travel. Carried out during Expeditions 29/30 and 31/32, this initiative combined health science with astronaut training to encourage kids to get active and learn about the science of human spaceflight.

Led by Elisabeth Celton at ESA’s ESTEC center, Mission X challenged students to complete physical exercises and health-based activities modeled after those used by astronauts in training. These included strength training, coordination drills, and endurance exercises. Alongside the workouts, students explored how astronauts prepare their bodies for life in microgravity, including bone density, muscle health, and cardiovascular fitness.

What made Mission X particularly effective was its interactive nature. Schools were encouraged to join global teams, chart their progress, and compare notes with other students worldwide. The activities were supported by ISS-based demonstrations, where astronauts showcased how movement and exercise work in space. These segments offered a striking contrast to Earth-bound fitness and underlined the importance of physical health in space missions.

Students also learned about space nutrition, hydration, and mental well-being—highlighting how astronauts maintain peak performance in one of the most extreme environments.

Mission X brought science, health, and teamwork together in a dynamic educational experience. It inspired students to think critically about their bodies and space, promoting both wellness and curiosity about space exploration careers.

Ultimately, this program exemplified how engaging physical science can be when connected to the high-stakes reality of space travel.

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