
NASA's Sunita Williams is reportedly facing health issues as Boeing struggles with backlash
NASA is currently facing a critical decision as astronaut Sunita Williams reportedly deals with eyesight issues aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Initially scheduled to return on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore may now need to extend their mission significantly due to complications with the Starliner. NASA is considering using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as an alternative return vehicle, which could extend their stay from the planned eight days to over eight months.
The condition affecting Williams, known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), is a common issue among astronauts due to prolonged exposure to microgravity, which can lead to visual disturbances. Recent medical scans have been conducted to assess the severity of her condition.
Switching to SpaceX's Crew Dragon poses significant logistical and technical challenges, including the incompatibility of Boeing's spacesuits with SpaceX's spacecraft. This situation could force the astronauts to return without the protective suits, raising safety concerns. NASA is actively working on solutions, including possibly sending additional SpaceX flight suits on an upcoming mission.
Boeing, already under fire for various delays and technical issues, including its troubled 737 MAX aircraft, faces further scrutiny as its Starliner project encounters these significant setbacks. The competition between Boeing and SpaceX has been fierce since both companies were awarded contracts by NASA in 2019, with SpaceX consistently outperforming Boeing in delivering results.
NASA aims to finalize its decision on how to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth by the end of August 2024. The outcome will not only determine the astronauts' return but also impact Boeing's standing in the highly competitive space exploration industry.
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