NASA has pushed back against conspiracy theories surrounding the recent Christmas update from astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are stranded on the International Space Station (ISS). The duo was snapped wearing Santa hats and enjoying festive decorations in a Christmas video posted online. However, some users questioned whether they had taken the hats with them before launch or if they were made in space.
The New York Post reported that X users banded together to express their distrust, with some suggesting that the astronauts’ prolonged stay in space was part of an “elaborate conspiracy.” Others claimed that all visual updates were filmed in a studio instead.
NASA has since confirmed that the festive decorations, gifts, and Christmas meals for the ISS crew members were included in a three-ton SpaceX delivery in late November. The package, which also brought fresh supplies, including food items like ham, turkey, vegetables, and treats, was part of the usual routine of replenishing the station with necessary materials.
Despite their prolonged stay, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s homecoming journey hit another snag this month, with their rescue mission deadline now expected to occur in late March instead of early February. The revised schedule means they will spend nearly an entire year in space until Spring 2025.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/after-alarming-sunita-williams-weight-loss-reports-stranded-astronauts-santa-hat-pic-sparks-theories-nasa-responds-101735085363273.html