Concerns grow as Sunita's health deteriorates in space

WASHINGTON DC: A recent set of photos released by NASA has sparked concerns about the health of Indian-origin American Astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been in space for the last 153 days. It is clear from the photos that Sunita has suffered significant weight loss since arriving at the International Space Station five months ago. The recent photos show Sunita with sunken cheeks and a thinner frame. NASA has clarified that the flight surgeon at the station is examining Sunitha and that there is no need to worry.

A Seattle-based doctor, who analyzed the NASA photo, informed that Sunita's health does not look satisfactory. The doctor concluded that Sunita's body weight has reduced significantly as her body has been using more energy to adapt to the microgravity environment for a long time. To combat the effects of microgravity, astronauts in space stations need to consume high-calorie food. They will experience increased metabolism. The astronauts must exercise regularly (2.5 hours/day) to prevent muscle and bone degeneration. In addition to all this, mental stress can also affect health. Women lose blood plasma and muscle strength faster than men in space.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore arrived at the International Space Station on June 7 aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. They were initially scheduled to return on June 13. However, their return was delayed due to a malfunction in Starliner. According to reports, Sunita Williams will now return from the space station on SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft at the end of February next year.

Concerns are growing as Sunita will have to spend two more months in space with deteriorating health. Three astraunats who recently returned after an unexpectedly long stay on the space station were hospitalised a few days ago.