ISS astronauts enjoy a microgravity holiday with Brussels sprouts and more

Space-bound holiday celebrations for astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) closely resemble those on Earth, with a few notable differences: the absence of gravity and a unique food selection not typically enjoyed by those on solid ground.

As is tradition, the current seven-member ISS crew has been sharing festive photos from their orbital home approximately 250 miles above the Earth.

NASA astronaut Nick Hague, who arrived at the ISS in September, shared a photo of the four American astronauts donning festive attire, accompanied by a heartfelt message: “The holidays are all about time spent with family and friends. This year, that celebration is bittersweet. While it’s joyous to share this amazing opportunity to live in space with a truly remarkable crew, I deeply miss my family and friends on Earth.”

Hague also posted an image of all seven crew members — including NASA astronauts and three Russian cosmonauts — enjoying a festive meal together.

When I think of the holidays, I think of dinners at Christmas, with family and friends gathered for a delicious meal and dessert! For me, it’s cookies. Sugar, mint chocolate, peanut butter; my Dad bakes some of the best on the planet. I wish I had some while I’m off the planet! pic.twitter.com/oEddvsz5BL

— Nick Hague (@AstroHague) December 23, 2024

According to Eater, the typical holiday menu for ISS astronauts includes sliced roasted turkey (rehydrated from freeze-dried form), smoked turkey (ready-to-eat irradiated item), mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and cranapple dessert.

To provide a taste of home, a team of chefs on Earth prepares a holiday foods package containing crab meat, smoked salmon, pork liver pate, jellied cranberry sauce, and pumpkin spice lattes. These items are packaged for safety, longevity, and ease of consumption in microgravity conditions before being sent to the ISS on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

Normal-sized cookies are not allowed on the ISS due to the risk of crumbs floating and causing issues. Cookies onboard are bite-sized or slightly moist to prevent crumbs.

While many enjoy a drink during the holidays, astronauts on the ISS can only have soft drinks as alcohol is prohibited onboard.

Despite the unique circumstances, ISS astronauts find ways to celebrate the holidays in their own special way, making them members of a truly exclusive club.