NASA astronauts on the orbital station decided to wish a Happy Thanksgiving to those on Earth. Currently, four Americans live and work on the ISS: Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore, Don Pettit, and Nick Hague.
[Don Pettit, NASA astronaut]:
“Thanksgiving is usually a time for family and friends to come together. Sometimes we can’t be physically together. But in this day and age, we can connect with family and friends virtually.”
One of the traditions of Thanksgiving is a festive dinner. Astronauts will have one, too.
[Nick Hague, NASA astronaut]:
“We’ll keep that tradition here. Although our food looks a little different. Don, hold the microphone. So, we have a container of what we’re going to enjoy on Thanksgiving. It’s going to be quite a feast. Let me see, we’ve got Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, apples, and smoked turkey. It will be delicious.”
Thanksgiving is also a time to thank God, family, and friends.
[Barry Wilmore, NASA astronaut]:
“We do have a lot to be thankful for. For example, in terms of work. There are not many places where you can float under the ceiling. And this is one of them. We are grateful for weightlessness. It is wonderful. And, of course, we are grateful for our family and friends for praying for us.”
The astronauts will remain on board the ISS until February next year.
In addition to the Americans, Russian cosmonauts Ivan Vagner, Alexander Gorbunov, and Alexey Ovchinin are on the orbital station.
