TRAPPED IN SPACE!
Two Nasa astronauts are currently trapped in space without a ride home! But what is life like up their in space and how will they fill their time? We asked original space cadet, Bob Cheeseman to find out.
SCIENCE NEWS
Bob Cheeseman
9/9/20242 min read
Stranded in Space!
Meet Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams, the dynamic duo currently marooned on the International Space Station (ISS). Their predicament? A series of unfortunate events involving Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Originally set for a quick eight-day mission, they’ve now been up there since June, thanks to helium leaks, dead thrusters, and a propellant valve that just wouldn’t cooperate.
Life on the ISS: The Good, the Bad, and the Zero-G
The Good:
Views to Die For: Imagine sipping your morning coffee while watching 16 sunrises and sunsets every single day. The ISS orbits Earth every 90 minutes, offering a constantly changing, breathtaking view.
Floating Fun: Microgravity turns mundane tasks into a circus act. Ever tried somersaulting down a hallway or playing with your food mid-air? Astronauts get to live out these childhood dreams daily.
Scientific Playground: The ISS is a hub for cutting-edge research. From growing crystals to studying the effects of microgravity on the human body, astronauts are always busy with fascinating experiments.
The Bad:
Space Plumbing: Fixing a toilet on Earth is bad enough. Now, imagine doing it in zero gravity. Butch and Suni recently had to replace the pressure control and pump assembly motor for the ISS’s main restroom. Fun times!
Radiation Risks: Prolonged exposure to space radiation is no joke. It’s one of the significant health risks astronauts face, potentially increasing their long-term risk of cancer.
Isolation: Being stuck in a tin can with the same people for months can be challenging. Sure, you’ve got video calls, but nothing beats a hug from a loved one or a walk in the park.
The Fun Bits:
Spacewalks: Stepping out into the void of space is both terrifying and exhilarating. Astronauts often describe it as the highlight of their missions.
Weightless Workouts: Exercising in space is a unique experience. Astronauts use specially designed equipment to keep fit, and the lack of gravity makes for some interesting workout routines.
Space Cuisine: While most of the food is dehydrated or vacuum-sealed, astronauts occasionally get fresh supplies. Plus, they get to experiment with eating in zero gravity, which can be quite entertaining.
So, while Butch and Suni might be stuck for now, they’re making the most of their extended stay. Here’s hoping they get back to Earth soon, with plenty of stories to tell and maybe a few new dance moves from floating around the ISS!
