ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, currently on the International Space Station for the εpsilon mission, exercises on the CEVIS bike just a few days after her launch on 13 February 2026.

Keeping astronauts healthy during long-duration missions is a crucial challenge as their muscles, bones and cardiovascular systems weaken in the microgravity environment. The most effective countermeasure against the absence of gravity is a daily two-hour exercise routine; this ensures they stay strong and fit to accomplish their mission, both in orbit and once they return to gravity.

The Danish Aaerospace Company (DAC) made CEVIS, which stands for Cycle Ergometer with Vibration Isolation and Stabilization System; it has been in use on the Space Station since 2009. A new exercise device, commissioned by ESA and also developed by DAC, will arrive at the Space Station in April 2026: the European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device or E4D, a compact and versatile next-generation in-flight exercise system.

Sophie launched to the International Space Station as part of Crew-12 for a long-duration mission lasting up to nine months. She will carry out a wide range of tasks, including European-led scientific experiments and medical research, support Earth observation efforts and contribute to operations and maintenance on the Station.

Follow Sophie’s mission on the εpsilon page and on her social media platforms, such as X,Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn.