The Sword and Laser discussion

Did anyone else wonder why station was so big. I only got it in the 3rd book but there were more people than necessary on station. Space stations are supposed to be efficient, air in space costs.
It's not like people want to live in space. It's clear in the books that they like to go the planet.

I never understood the jumping off the bridge scene. How did they survive and get out of the "hole"? If that is what it was.

Karl wrote: "I never understood the jumping off the bridge scene. How did they survive and get out of the "hole"? If that is what it was."

I don't remember it much but wasn't it a pipe?
But, yes. I found it strange but I just gave reasnoble doubt and thought I just can't imagine it right.