NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams' Weight Loss Sparks Concern Amid ISS Stay

Washington D.C., Dec 15 (Daily Alayaran.com) - NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been on board the International Space Station (ISS) since June, has been spotted with a significant weight loss, raising concerns about her health.

The recent photo of the astronaut has gone viral on social media, with many flagging her drastic weight gain or rather, weight loss over the past year. According to reports, Williams had started her trip while weighing around 140 lbs but struggled to meet the high-calorie intake required to maintain her weight as her stay in space continued.

To alleviate these concerns, NASA officials have sought to reassure everyone that Williams and all ISS residents are closely monitored by a medical team. "All NASA astronauts aboard ISS undergo routine medical evaluations and are monitored by dedicated flight surgeons," said Jimi Russell, a NASA spokesperson.

Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore had been meant to serve as test pilots for the Boeing Starliner on June 5 but their aircraft malfunctioned, leaving them 'stranded'. The duo eventually made it back to Earth in August after it was deemed too risky to carry them on the Starliner.

Despite the initial setback, both Williams and Wilmore continued with their work formally as part of the expedition and will return to Earth next February. Their prolonged stay has made a significant impact on Williams' weight, prompting NASA to take steps to help her stabilize and hopefully reverse the sudden loss.

Meanwhile, three NASA astronauts who returned from the space station in October after being delayed due to the Starliner crisis also ended up taking a detour to hospital for nearly eight months. The trio splashed down safely but were forced to spend time on Earth due to "medical issues."