NASA's Sunita Williams stuck in space: Food, oxygen, and health risks explained
Originally set for an eight-day mission, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are now facing an eight-month stay on the International Space Station (ISS) due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
Mission Extension
Instead of returning on the Starliner, Williams and Wilmore are scheduled to return to Earth in February 2025 aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon, owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX.
Return Plan
On the ISS, astronauts sleep in personal sleeping stations designed for zero gravity. These small, enclosed spaces include a sleeping bag and pillow, allowing astronauts to sleep in any orientation since gravity does not affect them.
Living Conditions
With the mission extended, ensuring a steady supply of food and oxygen is critical. NASA regularly conducts resupply missions to the ISS, delivering additional food, fuel, and other essentials to support long-term stays.
Food and Oxygen Supply
Prolonged space travel presents significant health risks, particularly the accelerated destruction of red blood cells, known as hemolysis. This condition, which leads to anemia, could pose serious health challenges for Williams during her extended mission.
Health Risks
To combat the effects of prolonged weightlessness, Williams and her crewmates follow a rigorous exercise routine using the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED), which simulates weightlifting to help maintain muscle and bone health.
Exercise Regimen
Despite the extended mission, astronauts stay connected with their families through video calls, audio calls, and emails, providing crucial emotional support during their time in space. DECK
Communication with Loved Ones
The Boeing Starliner is expected to leave the ISS and complete a controlled re-entry and landing in early September, though it will return to Earth without crew members on board.
Starliner's Departure
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