In Focus by The Hindu What happens to astronauts on an extended stay in space
Sep 23, 2024
Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, seasoned NASA astronauts, share their unplanned journey of an extended eight-month stay at the ISS after issues with the Boeing Starliner. They discuss the technical hurdles that led to this situation and delve into the challenges of resupply and living conditions in space. The conversation highlights health impacts on astronauts in microgravity and the importance of exercise. They also touch on the future of the ISS and the possibility of India's involvement in upcoming space missions.
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Extended Stay Due to Helium Leak
- Astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore's space mission was extended due to a helium leak in the Boeing Starliner capsule.
- This malfunction raised concerns about fuel management and spacecraft navigation, leading to the decision to extend their stay.
Astronaut Health Management
- Astronauts on the ISS follow a strict schedule controlled by ground control, including research, exercise, and daily tasks.
- Specific exercises are designed to counteract the effects of microgravity on bone density and blood flow.
Extended Stay in Salyut
- In 1979, two cosmonauts' stay aboard the Salyut space station was extended due to a malfunctioning replacement ship.
- They ended up spending 175 days instead of the planned 108 days.