Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, NASA astronauts, are utilising their unexpectedly extended space mission to conduct vital experiments and research on the International Space Station
Williams and Wilmore are testing ways to water plants in the weightless environment. They are experimenting with root models and plants of various sizes in the Harmony module, according to NASA
Harmony is a crucial hub on the ISS, providing air, power, water, and other essentials. It also supports docking for commercial crew vehicles
Williams set up Plant Water Management hardware and tested liquid flow methods. Wilmore used hydroponics and air circulation to nourish plants in space, NASA has said
The astronauts conducted vein scans using Ultrasound 2. They imaged each other's veins to understand microgravity's effects on the human body
Williams focused on manufacturing optical fibres and using fluid physics to manage plant watering and nourishment in microgravity
The Expedition 71 crew and Starliner astronauts practised an emergency drill, coordinating with mission controllers to handle potential space station emergencies
Williams and Wilmore worked on life-support systems, refilling temperature loops with water in the Tranquility module’s thermal control system
Initially planned for an eight-day mission, the astronauts’ return has been delayed due to technical issues. They may return by the end of July.