Russian Cosmonaut Sets New Record for Most Time in Space

http://tinyurl.com/2dker5v2
What are your thoughts on Oleg Kononenko's new record?

I find Oleg Kononenko's new record amazing. I've heard that life in space, with zero gravity, is challenging even for trained astronauts, so the fact that he will have lived about 1000 days there is truly admirable.

What do you imagine is the hardest thing about going on a long space mission?

Regarding the hardest thing about going on a long space mission, I think everything would be difficult, especially having to monitor their lives all day. That aspect would be particularly stressful for me. So, I have great respect for all astronauts. Their mental strength surpasses that of the average human.

If given the chance, would you like to visit the ISS?

If given the chance, I would definitely like to visit the ISS. I want to see the Earth from space and personally verify if it is truly round.

Do you know anyone who would make a good astronaut?

I only know of Soichi Noguchi. He is known for setting records for the longest time spent in space from my country. While I don't know much about astronauts, his active presence in the media has made me familiar with him.

Do you find it surprising that the US and Russia still cooperate closely on the International Space Station?

Regarding the close cooperation between the US and Russia on the International Space Station, I do find it surprising. Considering that there are few areas where they still cooperate, I hope they maintain their relationship in the field of space. It's somewhat romantic to imagine that one day they might reconcile through collaboration in the space conference room with a view of the Earth.