9. Always on NASA TV.
I never get tired of watching the free floating astronauts on the international space station. I used to wonder how some of them live there for up to six months continuously. After watching them busily go about their duties and chores, I am convinced that they would not have all that much time to ponder about missing the earth. Judging from all their interviews, the incredible view of the planet just outside their window is reward enough for their toils and longing for home. Anyway, hot showers and the sense of smelling coffee and food are what they miss most, according one astronaut.
In a few days, space shuttle Discovery will launch carrying NASA's helpful, strong and yet friendly robot Robonaut 2. This robot weighs slightly more than 300 pounds but has been designed not to hurt a fly, let alone an astronaut human. Right now, Robonaut has no legs or lower body and will stay tethered to a pedestal on the space station. But how will he/she behave under zero gravity when fitted with legs? I can not wait to watch!
