NASA has dismissed recent media claims regarding astronaut Sunita Williams’ health aboard the International Space Station (ISS), confirming that she is in good health and undergoing routine medical evaluations.
The controversy began after reports from The Daily Mail and The New York Post raised concerns about Williams’ well-being, fueled by a photograph that surfaced on September 24. In the image, Williams appeared with a pirate’s eye patch in celebration of Halloween, orbiting Earth while aboard the ISS.
NASA quickly responded to the speculation, releasing a statement on November 7 to reassure the public. “Williams is in good health,” the statement read. “We are not tracking any concerns with her or any other astronaut aboard the ISS.” The space agency emphasized that all astronauts on the ISS are regularly monitored by dedicated flight surgeons who conduct routine health assessments.
Williams, who has been aboard the ISS since June, has experienced some weight loss due to the extended duration of her mission. Originally scheduled for an eight-day stint, Williams, 59, and her fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore were forced to remain on the station for a prolonged period due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner. As a result, they have now spent over 155 days in space and are expected to return aboard a SpaceX capsule in February 2025.
NASA has responded to the issue by ramping up nutritional support for Williams. Due to the physical demands of space, astronauts typically require a caloric intake of 3,500-4,000 calories per day. However, Williams’ weight loss has led to a special dietary plan, potentially requiring up to 5,000 calories a day to maintain her health in the weightless environment.
An anonymous NASA employee explained that female astronauts, in particular, are at a higher risk of muscle and weight loss in space, a challenge that is being closely studied by the agency. “Williams’ metabolic needs may now require additional caloric intake,” the source added.
Despite these challenges, NASA has expressed confidence in Williams’ ability to complete her mission safely. The agency reassured the public that ample supplies, including food, are available to support the astronauts during their extended stay on the ISS.
NASA remains committed to ensuring that all crew members aboard the ISS are stable and in good health, with regular monitoring and adjustments to support their well-being in space.
