Astronaut Sunita Williams Facing Eyesight Issues Amidst of her Uncertain Return

Due to reports that astronaut Sunita Williams is having vision problems on the International Space Station, NASA must make a critical decision. NASA is taking into consideration SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as a backup because of issues that are postponing their return on Boeing’s Starliner. Their mission might be extended from eight days to more than eight months with this alteration.

Williams facing health issues

Along with her colleague Barry Wilmore, astronaut Sunita Williams has been stationed on the International Space Station (ISS), and it appears that she is having health problems. The two’s return aboard Boeing’s Starliner has been days behind schedule due to some major issues. Williams, 58, is reportedly having vision problems aboard the ISS, according to recent reports, even as Boeing explores other options, including as SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, to return the astronauts. According to reports, extended microgravity exposure is associated with this illness.

In addition to the well-known concerns of radiation and weightlessness, experts point out that there are other risks associated with space travel. One major worry is the potential for oxygen deprivation to injure the brain, according to an Indian Express investigation.

Space environment and life support systems

Because of the intense vacuum and absence of air pressure in space, astronauts depend heavily on life support. Systems for supplying oxygen to the brain guarantee its life. But any malfunction in these systems could have detrimental effects on health, such as brain damage and oxygen deprivation.

Extended exposure to space radiation increases the chance of acquiring neurological disorders and cancer by causing damage to DNA. NASA keeps a careful eye on radiation levels, but Williams’ prolonged mission raises questions about the long-term effects of radiation on brain and cognitive function.

According to Dr. Kumar, oxygen is essential for brain function and that even brief oxygen deprivation can result in permanent brain damage. Hypoxia, or low oxygen levels, can affect brain activity and cause disorientation, lightheadedness, and, in extreme situations, unconsciousness or irreversible harm.

Questions arising due to carelessness

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, two astronauts, have been stranded aboard the International Space Station for almost 70 days, and NASA is unsure of when they will be allowed to return to Earth.

This uncertainty in their returns is alarming as their life and career is on the line. Williams health issues are concerning and Boeing lack of attention brings yet another backlash.