Monitoring Desk:
NASA has dismissed recent media reports questioning the health of astronaut Sunita Williams aboard the International Space Station (ISS), confirming she is in stable condition and continues to receive regular medical evaluations.
Speculation began after tabloid sources, including The Daily Mail and The New York Post, raised concerns about Williams’ health following the release of a recent image. On November 7, NASA assured the public, stating, “Williams is in good health. We are not tracking any concerns with her or other crew members on the ISS.” The agency emphasized that all astronauts undergo routine health assessments, with a team of flight surgeons closely monitoring their well-being.
Williams, 59, who has been aboard the ISS since June, has faced some weight loss during her mission. To counteract this, NASA has intensified nutritional support, as weight maintenance in space requires high caloric intake and rigorous exercise, especially for female astronauts. Currently, Williams’ dietary needs are estimated at 5,000 calories daily, higher than the usual 3,500-4,000 calories required in space environments.
Initially expected to return after an eight-day mission, Williams and fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore have now been aboard the ISS for over 155 days due to delays with the Boeing Starliner. Their return is scheduled for February 2025 via a SpaceX capsule.
NASA reiterated that Williams is in good health, with dedicated medical teams ensuring her continued safety during her extended stay on the ISS.
