Stranded Astronauts Face Challenges: Missed Milestones, Strange Smells, and Unusual Meals

Two NASA astronauts, Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, are stranded on the International Space Station due to the failure of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which experienced helium leaks and thruster malfunctions. Originally scheduled for an eight-day mission, their stay has extended to at least eight months, with a SpaceX Dragon Crew capsule expected to bring them back in February. This situation echoes the experience of astronaut Frank Rubio, who missed significant family events due to an extended stay in space. The astronauts face challenges of isolation and monotony while awaiting their return.