NASA and JAXA astronauts share playful portrait aboard ISS

USA: NASA and JAXA astronauts share playful portrait aboard ISS

Four astronauts from NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency captured a light‑hearted moment through a circular opening in a hatch thermal cover aboard the International Space Station on Sept. 18 2025.

Setting and composition

The photograph shows the crew members arranged clockwise, beginning with JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui, followed by NASA astronauts Jonny Kim, Zena Cardman, and Mike Fincke. The circular aperture creates a natural frame that emphasizes the camaraderie among the crew.

Crew background

Yui, a veteran of long‑duration missions, joined the expedition as a flight engineer. Kim, a former Navy SEAL and medical doctor, contributed to scientific investigations. Cardman, a geoscientist, focused on planetary analog research, while Fincke, known for his extensive spaceflight experience, supported station operations.

Public outreach purpose

According to NASA, such informal images aim to humanize the station’s daily routine and engage the public in ongoing exploration efforts. The agency frequently shares similar content on its social platforms to illustrate life aboard the orbiting laboratory.

Technical context

The hatch thermal cover, designed to protect equipment from extreme temperature fluctuations, includes the circular opening used for the portrait. Engineers maintain the cover to ensure thermal stability while allowing crew members occasional visual access.

Future outlook

NASA plans to continue collaborative missions with international partners, including additional JAXA crew members, as the station prepares for the transition to commercial platforms. The ongoing partnership underscores the importance of multinational cooperation in low‑Earth orbit.

Dieser Bericht basiert auf Informationen von NASA, lizenziert unter Public Domain (U.S. Government Work).