NASA has dismissed recent media claims about the health of astronauts Sunita "Suni" Williams and Butch Wilmore aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Contrary to reports suggesting significant weight loss and health concerns, the space agency has assured the public that both astronauts are in excellent condition.
NASA Confirms ISS Astronauts in Good Health Amid Rumors
Dr. J.D. Polk, NASA's chief health and medical officer, emphasized that Williams and Wilmore are maintaining their pre-flight weight and continue to thrive in the microgravity environment, Space said.
"Both astronauts weigh the same as when they launched," he said, explaining that changes in appearance, such as facial puffiness or muscle shifts, are common in space due to fluid redistribution and rigorous exercise routines.
The rumors originated from photos of Williams that some outlets described as showing her looking "gaunt." These speculations were fueled by comments from outside medical experts who suggested her appearance might indicate stress from the extended time in space.
Williams addressed the claims directly during a live interview from the ISS, stating, "I'm the same weight that I was when I got up here." She explained that her exercise regimen, which includes weightlifting and cycling, has slightly altered her physique, giving her a stronger build.
Polk further explained NASA's comprehensive approach to astronaut health. Crewmembers undergo daily exercise, weekly private medical checkups, and constant monitoring of their diet and overall well-being.
The astronauts also have access to an Internet Protocol (IP) phone to contact medical staff whenever needed. Polk reiterated that NASA has never had to return an astronaut early for medical reasons in the history of human spaceflight.
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Starliner Delays Extend ISS Stay, But NASA Assures Astronauts Are Thriving
Wilmore, who launched to the ISS with Williams in June aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, has also been the subject of similar rumors.
According to Gizmodo, media outlets suggested he might have experienced weight loss during the extended mission. However, NASA clarified that Wilmore, like Williams, is in excellent health.
The astronauts' mission was initially scheduled to last only 10 days, but technical issues with Starliner extended their stay to eight months. Despite the unexpected change, NASA confirmed that the ISS has ample supplies to support the crew until their scheduled return in February 2025 aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon.
This situation highlights the challenges astronauts face not only in space but also in dealing with public scrutiny. Williams' and Wilmore's professionalism and fitness demonstrate their preparedness to handle the demands of prolonged missions. NASA remains committed to ensuring their health and safety throughout their time aboard the ISS.
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