What Happens When Astronauts Get Stuck in Space? Know Different Aspects of Living in Space

Space Survival: After experiencing technical issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft that left them stranded on the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are currently waiting for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to make a decision regarding their return. NASA test pilots Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams were only supposed to spend eight days in space when they launched on June 5 aboard Boeing’s new Starliner capsule. It’s been more than 2 months since both Williams and Wilmore have been stuck in space. This has also raised questions about what happens when the astronauts get stranded in space. Are there enough food supplies and other requirements for them to survive? Let us delve deeper into how astronauts survive the space life. 

How Astronauts Live in Space?

When astronauts are unexpectedly extended in the harsh environment of space, they face complex challenges affecting their health, daily life, and mission success. 

Space Stations

Onboard spacecraft or space stations such as the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts reside and perform their jobs. These are equipped with life support systems that control temperature, remove CO2, and supply oxygen. The hull of the spacecraft is designed to provide radiation and micrometeoroid protection as well.

Microgravity Impact

Long-term microgravity exposure can cause bone loss and muscular atrophy. Muscle weakness and bone thinning are common in astronauts, particularly in weight-bearing bones like the pelvis and spine. Body fluids move from the lower to the upper body in microgravity, resulting in facial puffiness and increased pressure in the eyes, which obstructs vision.

Environmental Control

Carefully controlling life support systems is necessary to remove carbon dioxide, deliver oxygen, and control humidity and temperature. The health and safety of the crew may be in danger due to malfunctions or inefficiencies in these systems.

Nutritional Challenges

To stay healthy while in space, astronauts need to eat a carefully balanced diet. Food needs to be prepared and packaged to endure the environment and continue to supply vital nutrients for a long time.

Waste Management

Waste management in space is difficult. To prevent contamination and maintain hygiene, systems for managing human waste and recycling water must operate correctly.

Communication Delays

Astronauts may encounter communication delays with Earth depending on their location, which can affect their ability to make decisions and respond to emergencies.

Medical Emergencies

Astronauts must rely on the medical supplies and training provided on board in a medical emergency because there is no way to evacuate them right away.