NASA astronauts Sunita “Suni” Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore probably didn’t anticipate being on the International Space Station for as long as they have been. Originally planning to stay for just eight days when they left Earth in June, their return has been delayed until late March. Williams recently completed a spacewalk on Jan. 16 with astronaut Nick Hague, and both Williams and Wilmore are preparing for another spacewalk on Jan. 30. During the Jan. 16 spacewalk, they replaced a rate gyro assembly and conducted other maintenance tasks. The Jan. 30 spacewalk will involve removing radio antenna hardware and searching for microbes outside the ISS.
Despite missing their families, Williams and Wilmore remain positive about their extended stay on the ISS. NASA has delayed their return to Earth to late March to complete work on a new Dragon spacecraft that will launch four new crew members to the ISS. Williams and Wilmore, both experienced astronauts, have been assisting with various research projects and studies while on board the ISS. They have also been enjoying the unique experience of living in space.
The astronauts have been maintaining their health and fitness with a carefully monitored diet and exercise regime. Recent concerns about their appearance and the smell of a food delivery have been addressed by NASA’s chief health and medical officer. Williams and Wilmore continue to stay busy with research, maintenance, and data analysis during their extended stay in space.