Astronauts aboard the International Space Station enjoy holiday
meals just as their families do here on Earth. Although the food
is not mom's home cooking, it's also not the "tubes and cubes"
of the first meals in orbit during the Apollo years. Don't
expect someone to break out the "good china," though. On the
Station, the holiday table is set with bungee cords and Velcro.
Astronauts eat from disposable plastic containers and aluminum
pouches. Instead of a carving knife, scissors are more important
for meal preparation. Not fancy, maybe, but man what a view.
Also, as with holiday meals on Earth, it's the spirit of peace
and good will that warms the hearts of the diners. The
ChallengesWith no refrigerator or freezer aboard the Station,
food must remain good for long periods at room temperature.
Freeze-drying is a good option for many foods. Others are
thermostabilized, just like some foods found in grocery stores
that do not require refrigeration. Just like on Earth, some
items are vcanned while others like ca