Sunita Williams at risk of radiation, muscle loss during extended ISS mission
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore (Photo: NASA)
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are now facing a significantly longer stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) than originally anticipated. Both astronauts, who will begin their journey to the ISS on June 5 aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, may remain in space until 2025 due to unforeseen technical issues.
Originally planned as a week-long mission, it has now been extended to more than eight months. The unexpected turn has turned Boeing’s first human spaceflight into a potential rescue mission, with NASA exploring the possibility of using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon to bring the astronauts back to Earth.
The extended mission duration raises concerns about the health and safety of astronauts. The ISS, which orbits about 400 km above Earth, is outside the shield of our planet’s atmosphere and magnetic field. This location exposes astronauts to increased levels of solar radiation, with some parts of the station’s orbit experiencing radiation levels more than 30 times higher than those on Earth, according to data from the European Space Agency.
Health risks from space radiation
Long-term exposure to space radiation can lead to several health problems, including increased risk of cancer, tissue damage and nervous system complications. NASA data indicates that radiation levels on the ISS can range from 50 to 20,000 millisieverts, which is equivalent to 150 to 6,000 chest X-rays.
In addition to radiation, the longer mission also means longer exposure to microgravity. This can lead to significant bone and muscle deterioration. According to NASA, astronauts can lose about 1 percent of their bone mass each month in key areas such as the lower back, hips and thighs.
NASA is currently working on contingency plans to return the two astronauts to Earth. Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, said: “We’ve been working with SpaceX to make sure they’re prepared to respond to Crew 9… and return Butch and Suni to Crew 9 if needed.”
What was the mission of the Starliner?
The Starliner mission, commanded by Wilmore and piloted by Williams, was to certify the spacecraft for routine travel to and from the ISS. Starliner launched on June 5 and successfully docked with the ISS the next day.
Originally scheduled to return on June 14, the mission was intended to provide NASA with an alternative to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. Currently, the Crew Dragon capsule, which can carry up to seven passengers to and from Earth orbit, is the sole provider of crew transportation services to the ISS.
First publication: Aug 14, 2024 | 4:30 PM IST