Astronaut Sunita Williams, who is currently stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) alongside fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore, is reportedly facing a significant health challenge. The duo’s planned return to Earth on Boeing’s Starliner has been beset by technical complications, leading to a delay in their return. As Boeing explores alternative solutions, including the potential use of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for their journey back, new reports have surfaced that 58-year-old Williams is dealing with eyesight issues—a condition that has drawn considerable concern.
The condition affecting Williams is known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), a phenomenon linked to prolonged exposure to the microgravity environment of space. SANS can lead to a range of vision-related problems, including blurry vision and even structural changes to the eye. The syndrome is believed to result from the redistribution of bodily fluids in microgravity, which exerts pressure on the optic nerve and alters the shape of the eye.
In response to these developments, comprehensive medical evaluations have been conducted, including detailed scans of Williams’ retina, cornea, and lens to assess the impact of SANS on her vision. The ongoing situation underscores the unique challenges faced by astronauts during extended missions in space, as well as the critical importance of finding safe and effective solutions to ensure their well-being. As NASA and Boeing continue to navigate these complexities, the focus remains on bringing Williams and Wilmore safely back to Earth.
Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon mission, scheduled for September 2024, may be the new ride home for Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore. If this plan goes ahead, it will significantly extend their time in space, from the originally planned eight days to over eight months. This unexpected turn of events means the astronauts will remain aboard the ISS far longer than anticipated, facing the challenges of long-term spaceflight. The return of the Crew Dragon mission is expected in February 2025, marking the end of what will be an extended and demanding mission for both astronauts.
NASA is having trouble bringing the astronauts back to Earth safely and is now considering asking Elon Musk’s SpaceX for help. However, a new problem has come up: the spacesuits made by Boeing, which the astronauts are currently using, don’t work with SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. This creates potential risks for the mission, as the suits are a crucial part of the astronauts’ safety during their return journey. The incompatibility between the spacesuits and the spacecraft adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.
According to NASA, the spacesuits used by Boeing and SpaceX are not compatible with each other’s spacecraft. NASA stated, “You can’t use a Boeing suit in a SpaceX vehicle or a SpaceX suit in a Boeing vehicle, so that would not be the plan. If the Starliner undocks and only the Dragon is available, they might have to return unsuited on the Dragon.”
Neurologists warn that even short periods without oxygen can cause permanent brain damage, and prolonged exposure to space radiation could worsen neurological risks.
Furthermore, the emotional strain of isolation and cramped living conditions during space missions can contribute to mental health issues like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
However, if the astronauts return in February 2025, NASA will have enough time to send them the proper spacesuits.
Regarding the return date, Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator of Space Operations, mentioned that while everyone wants a specific date, flexibility is crucial. He added, “Butch and Suni are actively engaged on the ISS and making the best of their time, but they, like the rest of us, are eager for a decision. Once we have it, we’ll share the information with everyone.”
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