The Surprising Rules Astronauts Have to Follow in Space

Back on Earth, a spouse may be preparing breakfast while the astronaut appears on screen at the end of a working day. Those conversations are carefully supported because contact with family and friends can reduce the emotional distance of a six-month mission. Crew members can use email, internet-based telephone calls, and video communication, with private family conferences traditionally scheduled on a regular basis. The arrangement is handled through mission support rather than an informal contest among astronauts for spare bandwidth.