NASA is deeply concerned about astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) after significant weight loss. Experts noted her visibly gaunt appearance, prompting the NASA team to prioritize helping her regain weight.
At 59, Williams has lost a considerable amount of weight since arriving at the ISS, and NASA officials are now focusing on stabilizing and reversing this loss.
Williams and fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore have been stuck at the ISS for months following technical issues with the Boeing Starliner, initially intended for an eight-day mission. They are now waiting for the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule to bring them home in February.
Astronauts typically consume 3,500 to 4,000 calories daily to maintain their weight, but Williams has struggled to keep up with this caloric intake. The astronauts also exercise for over two hours each day to preserve muscle mass and bone density, which burns additional calories. To regain weight, Williams needs to consume up to 5,000 calories a day.
Despite concerns, NASA has reassured the public that all astronauts undergo regular medical evaluations and are monitored by flight surgeons.
While some staff members are worried, NASA has stated that Sunita is in good health, and there are no immediate alarm bells.
