The content of this post is an adaptation of an original text written by Guy Laliberté.

I had an exam on several topics we studied last week concerning the design and layout of the ISS. I feel like an aspiring young space architect!

At lunchtime, I slipped away to do my workout. Once you get into the habit, it’s hard to stop.

We had an exercise to carry out while wearing our flightsuits but my 2 partners did most of the work. It’s reassuring to see how well they know what to do and how well trained they are in the sequence of steps to take. In a nutshell, the exercise went smoothly.

I was interviewed by a journalist from AFP (Agence France-Presse). I have to say, the official photos were taken at just the right time!

Barbara and I also went to Energia, where we were shown how to pack our equipment. We also went over the functioning of the photo and video cameras and learned how to use SIGMA, an application that lets you capture all GPS points you wish to photograph from up above. (And no, I won’t be photographing all Starbucks store locations around the world!)

Then, we took (and passed!) our exam on the on-orbit health maintenance system. I promise to do my best to be a credit to the medical profession! ;-)

During another exercise, while we had our spacesuits on, they caused a leak in mine but I reacted quickly and everything went well. I had planned on taking it easy after this little “deliberate” incident, but found myself driving in the rain through traffic instead, trying to get to Moscow to pick up my Kasakh visa. I had made an appointment, but still had to wait 90 minutes once I got there. The good news is I can now check this off my to-do list, since I now have my visa in hand for my return to Earth!