Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are currently waiting for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) decision regarding their return. NASA will need to make a decision regarding the date of Starliner’s return, whether to bring the two astronauts back aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft or whether to fly back the Boeing space uncrewed.
In a situation that underscores the unpredictable challenges of space exploration, veteran NASA astronaut Sunita Williams might face the unprecedented scenario of returning to Earth without a spacesuit.
The problem began when NASA engineers detected significant malfunctions in the spacesuits currently on the ISS. These spacesuits, officially known as Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs), are crucial for any extravehicular activities (EVAs), commonly referred to as spacewalks. They are designed to protect astronauts from the vacuum of space, provide oxygen, regulate temperature, and shield them from space debris.
However, recent tests have revealed that some of the suits on the ISS are experiencing performance issues that could compromise their safety. Specifically, concerns have been raised about the suits’ life support systems, which are essential for maintaining oxygen levels and removing carbon dioxide. A malfunction in these systems could pose serious risks to an astronaut’s health and safety during a spacewalk.
Recently, Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of NASA’s Space Operations Mission Directorate said, “We’re reaching a point where that last week in August we really should be making a call, if not sooner.”
He added further, “Everybody will like a date, but we got some working dates, but I know we need to maintain that flexibility…right now, Butch and Sunny are well engaged on board the ISS…I know that they are making the best of the time, but I am sure they are eager for a decision just like the rest of us, and when we have that, we will be sure to get together with the rest of you and share that information.”
Let’s hope both the astronauts return safely.
