NASA Refutes Reports of ‘Health Concerns’ for ISS Astronaut Suni Williams

Space agency flatly denies speculation about the Boeing Starliner crewmember’s ‘gaunt’ look, driven by recent photos.

Friday, November 08, 2024 at 03:36 PM ET

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NASA astronaut and Boeing Starliner crewmember Suni Williams installs life support hardware on the International Space Station in August. [Courtesy: NASA Johnson Space Center]

Key Takeaways:

NASA has officially denied media speculation regarding astronaut Suni Williams facing "health concerns" on the International Space Station, stating that she and the entire crew are in good health.
Williams and her crewmate Butch Wilmore's stay on the ISS, initially planned for eight days, has been extended until February due to unresolved issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
While some reports cited an expert noting Williams' "gaunt" appearance due to potential weight loss, NASA clarifies that a degree of weight loss is normal for astronauts in space due to high caloric burn, and their health is routinely monitored with ample supplies.

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No, International Space Station (ISS) astronaut Suni Williams does not face “health concerns,” NASA said in response to media speculation.

Articles from the Daily Mail and New York Post, citing a pulmonologist and medical analyst, characterize the Boeing Starliner astronaut’s appearance in recent photos as “gaunt.” But the space agency told FLYING that Williams—along with the rest of the ISS crew—is just fine.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.