Space tourist considers DIY on busman's holiday
South African space tourist Mark Shuttleworth has described himself as a geek who wants to upgrade the International Space Station.
The internet tycoon travelled there on board a Russian Soyuz craft after paying around €22m for the privilege.
The computer expert says he is fascinated by some of the ageing technology on board.
During a BBC interview, Mr Shuttleworth said: "The geek in me cannot help but want to rewire the place with the latest stuff - we are going to have to see what comes of that."
He also spoke with first ever space tourist Dennis Tito who asked him about his scientific research on board the station.
Mr Tito said: "Congratulations Mark on a great flight. Sounds like you have been quite busy - busier than I was!"
Mr Shuttleworth also defended his decision to spend so much on a space flight when the money could have gone towards helping Africa's poor and hungry.
He said: "I wanted to say that dreams can come true - that is a very powerful thought."
He added: "It is incredible to see Africa from space for the first time. It has been quite difficult not to get stuck every time I go by a window, It is quite breathtaking.
"I am now going to see which of the crazy plans I am hatching can be done next. But first of all I am going to take a holiday after this."
