Sunita Williams, the commander of the International Space Station (ISS), is finalising preparations for her return to Earth aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, scheduled for February 2025. This marks a significant milestone in her mission as she undergoes extensive training, focusing on mastering the spacecraft’s departure systems with her fellow crew members.
The training ensures that the team is well-prepared for a safe and seamless return to Earth. In addition to her training, Williams continues to perform essential tasks aboard the ISS, contributing to the success of the mission and the safety of the crew during their final stages in space.
Sunita Williams prepares for SpaceX Dragon return: Eye exam and rigorous training underway
A key part of Williams’ preparation involves the maintenance of a U.S. spacesuit, required for an upcoming spacewalk. Spacesuit functionality is critical for ensuring astronaut safety during extravehicular activities (EVAs). Williams has been thoroughly inspecting and conducting repairs to ensure the suit’s readiness. These tasks are vital for addressing any unexpected contingencies during space operations.
Williams partnered with NASA Flight Engineer Butch Wilmore to perform in-depth eye examinations using the Ultrasound 2 device. In this procedure, they took turns scanning each other’s eyes while doctors on Earth monitored real-time data on their corneas, lenses, and optic nerves. Extended stays in microgravity can cause changes to astronauts’ vision and eye health, making regular examinations an essential part of their well-being. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of preserving astronauts’ health during long-term space missions.
Beyond medical monitoring, Wilmore contributed to operational tasks by transferring cargo between the Kibo and Columbus laboratory modules and installing air quality sensors in the Quest module. These sensors help track and maintain air quality, ensuring a safe and healthy environment aboard the ISS. Such efforts are vital to sustaining life aboard the station and supporting ongoing research activities.
Flight engineer Nick Hague’s micro-algae research for space missions
Flight Engineer Nick Hague delved into groundbreaking research involving micro-algae as a sustainable resource for long-duration missions. He processed sample containers for installation in the BioLab research facility, aiming to understand how microgravity and radiation affect these organisms. Micro-algae hold promise for carbon dioxide removal, oxygen production, and food generation—critical elements for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. This research could lead to innovative solutions for life-support systems on future deep-space missions.
SpaceX Dragon crew completes departure training for safe return in February 2025
The crew conducted a joint training session in the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, simulating their departure procedures. Williams, Hague, Wilmore, and cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov familiarized themselves with the spacecraft’s systems to ensure a safe return journey. Hague and Gorbunov, who arrived on the ISS in September 2024, will accompany Williams and Wilmore back to Earth in spring 2025.
The diverse tasks undertaken by the ISS crew exemplify NASA’s commitment to advancing human space exploration. From health monitoring and maintenance to research and training, these activities play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of current missions while preparing for future explorations. By integrating innovation and safety, the crew is laying the groundwork for humanity’s next great leaps into the solar system.
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