The Incident: Odour and Droplets
The unusual smell, accompanied by the discovery of small liquid droplets inside the Progress MS-29, was detected upon opening the spacecraft. Sensing a potential hazard, Commander Sunita Williams and the crew acted swiftly, sealing the hatch and isolating the affected area from the rest of the station to prevent the spread of any potential contaminants.
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NASA’s Quick Response
NASA activated the station’s air-scrubbing systems to purify the environment, ensuring the rest of the ISS remained safe for its inhabitants. Crew members donned personal protective equipment (PPE) while monitoring air quality levels. The prompt action helped stabilize the situation, and NASA later confirmed that the air aboard the ISS had returned to normal, with no safety risks to the astronauts.
Ongoing Investigation
Additional Challenges for the Crew
This air quality scare adds to the challenges already faced by ISS astronauts, particularly Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who have been stranded on the station since June due to delays in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft’s launch. The duo has been managing strict resource rations, including relying on recycled water. Their rescue mission, using a SpaceX Dragon capsule, is scheduled for February 2025.
The crew’s swift response underscores the importance of preparedness and teamwork in the unforgiving environment of space. Meanwhile, the investigation into the cargo spacecraft continues, ensuring future missions can address any potential risks.