How do astronauts drink in space? Sunita Williams explains
What's the story
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams recently held a virtual session with students of the Sunita Williams Elementary School. The purpose of the interaction was to give an insight into life onboard the International Space Station (ISS), and the unique challenges astronauts face in space. A major part of her presentation involved showing how astronauts drink liquids in a zero-gravity environment, owing to their changed behavior on the ISS.
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Take a look at the video
A student gets a demonstration from astronaut, Sunita Williams on how to drink liquids in space. Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore hit the six-month mark in space after becoming the first to ride Boeing's new Starliner capsule on what was supposed to be a week-long test flight.… pic.twitter.com/1UQSgvcHsN
— Francynancy (@FranMooMoo) December 6, 2024
Unique solution
Williams showcases special pouches for drinking in space
Williams said that owing to the microgravity conditions on the ISS, fluids don't behave like they do on Earth, making it impossible to drink them from regular cups. To tackle this problem, astronauts use specially designed pouches that prevent the liquid from floating away in these conditions.
Educational impact
Virtual session sparks curiosity among students
The virtual session was conducted with students of a school in Williams's hometown of Needham, Massachusetts. The interactive event gave young minds a chance to interact with the astronaut directly and pose questions. The educational and inspirational nature of the session piqued students' curiosity about space exploration, prompting them to explore science and space studies further.
Space mission
Williams's current tenure and future plans on ISS
Currently serving as the ISS Commander, Williams has spent six months on the station with astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore. Their return was delayed due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner capsule. She is now tipped to return in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Despite the challenges, Williams continues her work on various research projects that could mark significant milestones in space exploration for humanity.
Project
Williams will perform a spacewalk next year
Williams is gearing up for a spacewalk as part of the ISS's Expedition 72 crew next year. She has been inspecting her spacesuit carefully, and ensuring its life support systems are in optimal condition.