How Do Astronauts Play Card Games in Space?
By Space Coast Daily // August 23, 2024
Card games can be difficult at the best of times, but imagine if the cards were flying around in zero gravity as well. Now, that would certainly add an extra dimension of difficulty, wouldn’t it?
Astronauts have to entertain themselves, though, and they most certainly want to play casino classics while they’re away from Earth.
Luckily, there are ways for people to enjoy card games in the International Space Station. The astronauts up there also have plenty of other activities to partake in during their downtime.
No Surprise That Card Games Are Popular in Space Too
Even though they’re doing incredible work up in space, astronauts need some time to chill as well. Judging by how popular card games are on Earth, it’s hardly surprising that people love playing them up on the ISS as well.
Unfortunately for them, though, they don’t have access to all the high-tech live blackjack table games that players on the ground can access. Nowadays, planet dwellers can get hold of various live streams on tables like All Bets Blackjack and Infinite Blackjack. These are hyperrealistic and use all the latest high-tech cameras and streaming technology.
Astronauts have to make do with offline cards while they’re up in space, and they’ve been known to play a lot of the top offerings while kicking back in the ISS. However, they need some super special cards to make this possible.
Astronauts Need Special Space Cards
There’s a serious lack of gravity up in space that people who choose to remain within the Earth’s atmosphere can’t comprehend. Astronauts can’t even do basic things like shower or brush their teeth in the same way that we do on the ground. All of these activities need to be modified for microgravity, and that’s the case for playing cards as well.
To ensure that the cards stay on the table when playing poker or blackjack, astronauts need to use magnetic or Velcro-backed cards. They can then put these down on a sticky surface, safe in the knowledge that they aren’t going to float away. There’s also the option to use custom card holders that keep a firm grip on them. Of course, nowadays, astronauts have tablets so that they can play games digitally.
What Else Do Astronauts Get Up To?
Astronauts get up to loads of interesting things in their free time, with card games among many pastimes that they enjoy. Thanks to technology upgrades such as e-books, many people enjoy reading in space. They can also listen to music and watch films on their tablets.
One of the key things that astronauts do is exercise. They need to counteract the weakening of their muscles and bones in microgravity, so regular workouts are essential for staying fit.
If you’re a card game lover who also wants to become an astronaut, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to play your beloved games in space. Thanks to handy additions to the cards, people outside of the Earth’s atmosphere can enjoy some of the best card games from down below.
