Fresh health concerns about NASA astronauts stranded on ISS after 'gaunt' new photo

New health concerns raised

NASA and its Russian partners are grappling with fresh health concerns about astronauts stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) after a new photo of one of the crew members sparked concerns. The photo, taken by NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei, shows his Russian cosmonaut colleague, Pyotr Dubrov, looking noticeably thinner and more gaunt than usual, raising fears about his health.

Dubrov has been on the ISS for nearly a year, along with Vande Hei and Anton Shkaplerov. The trio were originally scheduled to return to Earth in March, but their return was delayed after a Russian spacecraft that was supposed to bring them back developed a leak. NASA and Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, are now working on a plan to bring the astronauts back to Earth in September.

Conditions in space

Living in space can take a toll on the human body. Astronauts experience weightlessness, which can lead to muscle loss and bone density loss. They are also exposed to high levels of radiation and experience changes in their sleep patterns. These factors can all contribute to health problems, both in the short and long term.

In the case of Dubrov, it is not yet clear what has caused his weight loss. However, there are a number of possible explanations, including stress, malnutrition, or a medical condition. NASA and Roscosmos are currently conducting tests to try to determine the cause.

Repatriation plans

In the meantime, NASA and Roscosmos are working on a plan to bring Dubrov and his crewmates back to Earth. The most likely scenario is that they will return in a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. However, there is also the possibility that they will be brought back in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule.

The decision of which spacecraft to use will be based on a number of factors, including the availability of the spacecraft and the health of the astronauts. NASA and Roscosmos are expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.

Conclusion

The new health concerns about Pyotr Dubrov are a reminder of the challenges of living in space. Astronauts face a number of health risks, both in the short and long term. NASA and Roscosmos are working to mitigate these risks, but there is always the potential for something to go wrong.