As early as Expedition 01, ISS astronauts have improvised tables for individuals and communal use. Commander Bill Shepherd, improvised a table from materials found on board the Russian Zvezda Module during the first ISS mission in 2001. More recent astronauts have described adding tape and velcro temporarily on surfaces to make tables as and when they are needed, and how these surfaces need only be taut, rather than rigid, to function in zero-g.
“More surfaces to put things” was cited as a recurring need when working in zero-g environments, as objects easily get lost in microgravity if not held down by tape or velcro. However, some of these tables also have additional value as communal objects on station. Tables have become centers of care, where astronauts exchange food and check in with each other. However, the designs of these communal tables reflect the notion of what a table is on Earth, rather than taking explicit advantage of the affordances of the microgravity environment. The modules that house these tables could also be improved to facilitate social interaction, carving out dedicated space for community on the station.
Communal time for providing and receiving care among the crew is critical to promote cohesion and wellbeing, which in turn can improve crew productivity. It is worth considering how we might evolve these objects and spaces to provide better focal points for care, while taking advantage of the affordances of microgravity in their designs.
