Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
Two NASA astronauts, Commander Barry Wilmore and pilot Sunita Williams, are currently marooned aboard the International Space Station (ISS), in a scenario more classic to a Hollywood thriller, following technical problems in their Boeing Starliner spacecraft. The astronauts had formed part of the maiden manned test flight for the Starliner, but now face an uncertain return to Earth due to helium leaks and problems by the thrusters in their journey to ISS.
Originally planned to spend only eight days in space, it’s possible now that astronauts Wilmore and Williams will have a much longer stay after all. NASA and Boeing are discussing the determination of whether there’s a safe passage back in the Starliner. If okay, they should return soon. But if the doors are shut, they’ll probably stay for up to six months longer until alternative plans can be made.
Uncertainty is both a logistical challenge and a psychological one. “You are stuck in orbit without knowing when you might come back,” Brown said. Waiting in stressful conditions can distort the perception of time, as was proven by research: “Long waiting periods may appear even longer than they are.” In fact, experiments with crews working in Antarctic research stations reveal the toll taken on human psychology by isolation and extended stays in extreme conditions.
If they need to stay for a longer time, NASA will have to ensure that they remain healthy physically and mentally when there’s no news to them at all aboard the ISS for months.
To Read More: Click Here