Sunita Williams Spacewalk – Sunita Williams gears up for 9th Spacewalk today!

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is scheduled to perform her ninth spacewalk today, the second of this year, as part of an International Space Station (ISS) repair mission. However, she has been advised to address pressing health concerns during her current mission aboard the ISS. Experts, including Dr. Kirsty Lindsay, an assistant professor of aerospace medicine at Northumbria University, have highlighted the severe physical toll of extended spaceflights and spacewalks.

In an interview with Metro, Dr. Lindsay likened spacewalks to “the heaviest gym session” on Earth, suggesting that Williams might still be feeling the lingering effects of her previous spacewalks.

These strenuous activities, combined with the challenges of microgravity, can lead to serious physical strain and systemic changes in the body.

Preparation to Prevent Decompression Sickness

Before venturing outside the ISS for spacewalks, astronauts like Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore must undergo meticulous preparations. A crucial part of this involves breathing pure oxygen in a specially designed airlock compartment.

This step helps eliminate nitrogen from the body, reducing the risk of decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” a condition that deep-sea divers face during rapid ascents.

Dr. Lindsay also pointed out that transitioning out of the airlock can lead to vertigo and dizziness due to the sudden environmental shift.

The Toll of Extended Spaceflights

Space missions lasting months can result in muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and fluid redistribution, all of which are amplified by microgravity.

Recent images of Sunita Williams show significant weight loss, raising concerns about her overall health.

Experts explain that astronauts’ metabolic changes in space require them to consume nearly double the calories they would on Earth to sustain energy levels and combat these physical challenges.

NASA’s Focus on Astronaut Health

NASA has implemented rigorous measures to ensure the safety of astronauts during and after space missions. However, as Williams continues her extended stay aboard the ISS, experts stress the importance of prioritizing her health to mitigate potential risks and ensure her safe return to Earth.

Williams remains a symbol of resilience and dedication, but her journey underscores the critical need for advanced health protocols in the demanding environment of space.