Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) may be floating in microgravity, but that doesn’t stop them from enjoying a good book—especially eBooks! Physical books are bulky and heavy, making them impractical for space missions where every ounce of weight matters. Instead, astronauts rely on digital libraries stored on their devices, ensuring they have access to a vast collection of books without adding extra mass to their cargo.
NASA and other space agencies have embraced eBooks and audiobooks as essential tools for astronauts. These digital books serve multiple purposes: education, entertainment, and mental well-being. Long-duration space missions can be stressful and isolating, so astronauts often turn to literature—whether it’s classic novels, scientific texts, or even sci-fi stories—to stay engaged and mentally sharp.
In addition to personal reading, eBooks are used for mission-critical documents, technical manuals, and emergency protocols. Instead of carrying stacks of printed guides, astronauts can instantly access digital versions, making operations more efficient.
One of the most famous books read in space is Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, a fitting choice given its interstellar theme. Even beyond the ISS, space agencies are considering how eBooks might be used on future Mars missions, ensuring that astronauts have knowledge, culture, and stories to keep them company millions of miles from Earth.
From classic literature to space exploration manuals, eBooks have truly become the ultimate portable library—one that reaches beyond our planet!
