Mon Nov 25 18:14:51 UTC 2024: ## NASA Shares Reassuring Photo of Sunita Williams After Weight Loss Concerns
**Houston, TX** – Concerns over the health of Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams, who has been aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for significantly longer than planned, have been eased by a new photograph released by NASA.
Williams and her colleague, Victor Glover, were initially scheduled for an eight-day mission to the ISS in early June. However, technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft extended their stay to over 150 days. Recent photos circulating online showed a concerning weight loss in Williams, sparking worry among the public. NASA sources had previously confirmed these concerns to the New York Post, highlighting the astronaut’s significant weight reduction and stating that restoring her weight was a priority. Williams subsequently reported that she was doing well, but the earlier images fueled speculation.
NASA’s latest Instagram post depicts Williams appearing healthy and looking out the window of the SpaceX Dragon crew spacecraft. The caption describes her face illuminated by the Earth’s light as she gazes toward home. The photo has already garnered over 21,000 likes and numerous comments expressing relief and inquiries about her return. One user asked about a potential return mission, while another expressed hope for Williams’ safe return to Earth.
NASA has indicated that Williams and Glover may return to Earth in February of next year. The agency explained that maintaining muscle and bone mass in a weightless environment requires over two hours of daily exercise, which, coupled with the challenges of consuming sufficient calories (3,500-4,000 daily to counteract the physical demands of space), may contribute to weight fluctuations. Williams reportedly weighed approximately 140 pounds before her extended mission.
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