Chris Hadfield explains why 2 astronauts are stuck in space

Summary

In this interview, former astronaut and International Space Station Commander Chris Hadfield discusses the challenges of space missions, including the risks of launching another spacecraft to retrieve the crew. He explains that although the crew’s return is uncertain, they are continuing their mission and conducting over 200 experiments on the ISS. Hadfield also addresses concerns about food supplies, radiation exposure, and the impact of long-duration space travel on the body, emphasizing that the astronauts are well-equipped and excited about their extended stay in space.

Takeaways

• 🚀 Spaceflight is risky, and launching another spacecraft adds further dangers and logistical challenges, such as proper suits and docking.
• 🔍 The safety analysis of the spacecraft is ongoing to ensure it’s safe for crew transport back to Earth.
• 🗓️ The mission initially planned for a minimum of 8 days, but issues led to an extension, which is common on first flights.
• 🔒 Despite challenges, the vehicle safely reached the space station, allowing the astronauts to stay as long as needed.
• 👩‍🚀 Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are experienced, actively working with ground control daily.
• 🍲 There is ample food supply on the space station, supplemented by recent and upcoming resupply missions.
• 🔬 The station operates about 200 experiments at once, so there is plenty of work for the astronauts.
• 🏋️ The station has exercise equipment to help mitigate the physical toll of prolonged space missions.
• ☢️ Radiation is a concern above the atmosphere, but exposure is monitored and kept within safe limits.
• 😄 Extended mission time is seen as a positive experience for the astronauts, who are thrilled with the opportunity.

Q & A

Why hasn't there been an update on when the spacecraft will be ready?

Space flight is dangerous, and sending another spacecraft would increase the risk of rocket launch failures. Additionally, there are challenges in ensuring the crew has the proper space suits for another spacecraft. The current vehicle's safety is still being analyzed, so it's too soon to determine when it will be ready.

Why is it difficult to send another spacecraft to bring the crew home?

Sending another spacecraft would introduce more risk due to the dangers of rocket launches. Also, it's not easy to ensure the crew has the right space suits that match a different spacecraft. These factors make it a complex decision.

What was the mission's original duration, and why was it extended?

The mission was initially planned for a minimum of eight days. However, during the first flight of the spaceship with a crew onboard, they encountered some issues, which is typical for first flights. This led to the mission being extended, allowing the crew to stay on the space station for an extended period.

How dangerous was this particular flight?

This was the first flight of the spaceship with people onboard, making it extremely dangerous, similar to the first flights of other spacecraft. It posed unique challenges, but the crew managed to safely reach the space station.

How are the astronauts keeping busy during their extended stay on the space station?

The space station runs about 200 experiments simultaneously, so there's always plenty of work to be done. The astronauts are actively involved in these experiments, working as extra sets of hands and minds, which makes their extended stay highly productive.

Is there enough food for the astronauts during their extended mission?

Yes, the space station is well-stocked with food, though it's not gourmet. There was a recent resupply mission that brought more supplies, and another vehicle is set to launch with additional provisions. They have enough food for extended periods.

What are the physical challenges astronauts face during long-term space missions?

Astronauts need to stay in shape, and the space station has good exercise equipment. They also face higher radiation exposure due to being above Earth's atmosphere, but it's carefully tracked. Overall, these challenges are well-understood based on previous long-term space missions.

How long have some astronauts lived in space, and what does that mean for the current crew?

Some astronauts have spent over a thousand days in space, with one person staying for 14 months. Given this knowledge base, the length of time the current crew is spending in space is not a concern.

What makes this extended mission a positive outcome for the astronauts?

From the astronauts' perspective, an extended stay on the space station is a lucky turn of events. They are getting more time to work on important experiments and enjoy what they've trained for, which is living and working in space.

How does the crew's experience influence their ability to handle this extended mission?

Both Butch Wilmore and Sunny Williams have experience with long-duration flights. Sunny even ran a marathon on a treadmill during one of her previous missions. Their experience makes them well-prepared to handle the demands of an extended mission.