Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were travelling to the space on June 5 2024. However, due to technical complications in their spacecraft. It has been two months since they both have been in space. NASA is continuously trying to bring their astronauts back, but in a short period, it would seem impossible.
Furthermore, they were on a test mission to the International Space Station and were about to return on June 13, 2024. They have enough food and water to survive in space for several months. NASA is working with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to bring astronauts back.
What Happened with Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore?
Sunita Williams, 58 and Butch Wilmore, 61, were on the eight days test mission to the International Space Station. Their journey started on June 5, 2024, and was about to end on 13 June. They successfully spent their time in the space and were returning. However, their Boeing Starliner met with helium leakage and technical glitches when they were about to return.
The trouble is much greater than it seems; out of 28, five thrusters were shut down. Even the valves are fully damaged. If they start their return journey, they will not be able to reach Earth. However, till now, Boeing has fixed many cases like this virtually. However, according to NASA reports, this Boeing will only successfully land on more thrusts.
Furthermore, NASA is now working with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to bring back them. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon was about to launch in August 2024 but is rescheduled. If Starline’s glitches are not fixed soon, CreDragon will launch in September 2024. However, it will bring back Williams and Wilmore by February 2025.
At first, four astronauts could sit in Cre Dragon, but now only two crew members will go to space. The other two seats are reserved for Williams and Wilmore. Currently, the astronauts have to spend more than six months because no officials have any alternative solution to fix the complications.
However, NASA, with the help of the SpaceX rocket of Elon Musk, delivered food and other required supplements to the astronauts. Through the connection, William conveyed that they are keeping themselves busy. They feel good floating in space and are working with the International Space Station team. Williams has faced health complications such as bone density loss.
Health Complications Facing By Williams and Wilmore
Some of the complications Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will face in space, such as:
1. Space radiation
Many cosmic rays and Solar Energetic Particles are present in space, which can lead to cancer. It can also damage the cells and cause long-term health complications. It can also damage the DNA and affect the Central Nervous System and cardiovascular system.
2. Bone and Muscle Loss
Bone and muscle loss is common in space. The harmful radiations destroy bone-forming cells called osteoblasts. They also affect osteoclasts, which are bone-reabsorbing cells. These can affect the bone weight. Similarly, radiation causes protein breakdown in tissues and affects the muscles.
3. Sleep disturbance
The harmful radiation damaged the brain cells, leading to difficulties in concentrating, sleeping, and memory problems. The radiation also causes stress and anxiety in the human body. It also affects hormones, which causes hormonal imbalance.
Condition of Boeing Starline
The current condition of Boeing Starline is improving. However, the Starline lost its five thrusters because of heavy helium leakage. In a recent interview with Boeing, the engine system and gas pressure are working well. They added that out of 28 thrusters, 27 are now working properly.
Furthermore, we have yet to know what causes system failure. NASA says it has backup data, and it will conclude the reason by examining the data. After analysing the whole process, they will decide how to bring Boeing back to Earth.
Last Line
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stuck in space for more than 60 days. Elon Musk’s Crew Dragon was about to go to space in August. However, the trip has been rescheduled and will launch in September. The return will be possible by February 2025. William is suffering from bone loss due to microgravity.
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