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Where Did The 'Toxic Smell' On The ISS Come From? Astronauts React Swiftly

A strange ‘toxic smell‘ was detected onboard the International Space Station (ISS) shortly after the crew opened the hatch of the Progress MS-29 cargo spacecraft. This spacecraft had just docked with the ISS, bringing vital supplies onboard, including food and fuel. The incident prompted an immediate and coordinated response to ensure the safety of astronauts on board. […]

Where Did The 'Toxic Smell' On The ISS Come From? Astronauts React Swiftly
Where Did The 'Toxic Smell' On The ISS Come From? Astronauts React Swiftly
A strange ‘toxic smell‘ was detected onboard the International Space Station (ISS) shortly after the crew opened the hatch of the Progress MS-29 cargo spacecraft. This spacecraft had just docked with the ISS, bringing vital supplies onboard, including food and fuel. The incident prompted an immediate and coordinated response to ensure the safety of astronauts on board.

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

The source of the ‘toxic smell’ is unknown, and investigations are going on to determine whether it came from the Progress MS-29 spacecraft or through its connection vestibule to the ISS. However, the Progress MS-29 will still be docked for six months before returning back to Earth with waste materials.

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.

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