The week of December 8 to 12, 2025, at the International Space Station (ISS) was marked by scientific discoveries, technical challenges, and breathtaking views of our planet. The seven members of Expedition 74 not only conducted research but also shared unique moments of life in orbit with the world. Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui published a series of photographs capturing blue skies and snow-white clouds, reminding us of Earth’s fragile beauty.
“Before bed, I decided to take a few pictures — I’m sure everyone would like to see Earth this way. On the ISS, these views appear on their own if you simply look out the window,” Yui shared on social media the evening of December 11. His words and photos quickly spread across the globe, sparking a wave of admiration.
While some crew members admired the cosmic landscapes, others were fully immersed in scientific work and maintaining the station’s systems.
Scientific objectives
Throughout the week, the ISS crew carried out a series of experiments aimed at deepening our understanding of life in microgravity. American astronaut Zena Cardman studied stem cells, observing their behavior in microgravity conditions. This project could provide new methods for regenerating damaged human tissues and organs.
Russian cosmonauts Sergei Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev took part in the ‘Virtual’ experiment, testing the vestibular system in weightlessness using VR headsets. The data obtained will help develop effective methods for adapting the body to returning to Earth after long-duration flights.
Technical maintenance
In addition to scientific research, the crew had to handle more down-to-earth tasks. Kimiya Yui installed and soundproofed the experimental JEM DRCS carbon dioxide removal system in the Japanese Kibo module. This technology could be used in future missions to the Moon and Mars, ensuring clean air for astronauts.
American astronauts Chris Williams and Mike Fincke, along with their colleagues, prepared the HTV-X1 cargo spacecraft for its return to Earth. Their duties included loading unwanted equipment and waste, as well as preparing scientific equipment for transport. Fincke also repaired the toilet in the Tranquility module, replacing worn-out parts of the water management system.
Life in orbit
For Chris Williams, this mission was the fulfillment of a childhood dream. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been fascinated by space and exploration. For me, being an astronaut is the best way to discover the universe,” he said in an interview conducted directly from the station on December 11.
The current crew consists of Commander Mike Fincke, Zena Cardman, and Chris Williams (all NASA), Kimiya Yui (JAXA), as well as Oleg Platonov, Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, and Sergey Mikaev (Roscosmos). Each crew member is responsible for a specific area of work, but together they ensure the station operates smoothly, keeping it inhabited for more than 25 years.
Spacecraft
Currently, two crewed spacecraft are docked to the ISS: the American Dragon “Endeavour” (SpaceX) and the Russian Soyuz MS-28. In addition, there are four cargo modules at the station: two Progress ships (MS-31 and MS-32), the American Cygnus XL (S.S. William C. “Willie” McCool), and the Japanese HTV-X1. Each serves a unique purpose—ranging from delivering supplies to removing trash and equipment.
The station remains a symbol of international cooperation and scientific progress. Over the past 25 years, dozens of crews have rotated aboard, hundreds of experiments have been conducted, and the ISS has become home to representatives of many countries and cultures.
In case you didn’t know, Kimiya Yui is an astronaut from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) currently on his second flight to the ISS. His photographs and notes are regularly shared through the agency’s official accounts, generating interest from millions of people around the world. JAXA is Japan’s national space agency and is an active participant in international projects, including the ISS and upcoming missions to the Moon.
