How Astronauts Are Surviving Their Extended Stay at the International Space Station
Ask students: What kind of research is the ISS crew working on? Why does the crew have to spend two and a half hours a day exercising?
For NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, the long wait to return to Earth is almost over. They went to the International Space Station last June in a Boeing Starliner spacecraft. They were supposed to return a week later, but because of problems with the Starliner, they’ve stayed at the station for over 250 days. Amna Nawaz discussed more with Williams, Wilmore and crewmate Nick Hague.
View the transcript of the story.
Discussion Questions
- Who are Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore?
- Why were Williams and Wilmore unable to return to Earth?
- How long is the stockpile of food and supplies at the International Space Station intended to last?
- What kind of research is the ISS crew working on?
- Why does the crew have to spend two and a half hours a day exercising?
Focus Questions
Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore were supposed to be at the ISS for just a week and have now been there for over 250 days. Their work is important and as their situation proves, unpredictable at times. Do you think you would enjoy being an astronaut on the ISS? Explain why or why not.
Media literacy: What else would you like to learn about the life of astronauts in space? What's one question you would ask Williams or Wilmore?
Extension Activity
Watch the video below to learn about Frank Rubio, who set the U.S. record for longest single space mission.
Learn more about life at the International Space Station by completing this daily news lesson featuring astronaut Cady Coleman.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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