Sunita Williams’ Crew Faces Toxic Smell at ISS, Astronauts’ Response Revealed

A “toxic” odor detected on the International Space Station (ISS) by Russian cosmonauts prompted emergency measures from the crew, led by Commander Sunita Williams. The smell was noticed shortly after the Progress MS-29 cargo spacecraft docked at the Poisk Module of the ISS.

Upon opening the hatch of the spacecraft, cosmonauts were met with an unusual scent and small droplets, which raised concerns for the astronauts aboard. In response, the crew quickly sealed the hatch and isolated the affected area.

To address the issue, both NASA and Roscosmos activated air-purification systems to clean the station’s atmosphere. NASA’s team deployed the Trace Contaminant Control Subassembly (TCCS), while the Russian segment used additional purification technologies.

By November 24, the air quality aboard the ISS had returned to normal, and NASA flight controllers confirmed that there were no safety concerns for the crew and all operations were proceeding as usual.

While the source of the odor remains unclear, investigators are examining whether it originated from the Progress spacecraft itself or from the vestibule connecting it to the ISS.

The Progress MS-29 spacecraft, launched on November 21 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, brought essential supplies, including food and fuel, to the space station. It is set to return to Earth after six months, carrying waste materials.

Meanwhile, NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been aboard the ISS since June, awaiting rescue after technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Their return is planned for February 2025, when they are expected to be rescued by a SpaceX Dragon ship.