International Space Station: Stranded Astronauts aboard the International Space Station have sent their Christmas greetings from orbit.
Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore, Don Pettit, and Nick Hague, launched on 5 June for an eight-day test flight, have been unable to return due to technical issues with their Boeing-made Starliner spacecraft.
The spacecraft has suffered helium leaks and thruster failures, leaving the crew stranded in space beyond their expected return.
In a video message recorded on 23 December, Nick Hague shared that, “The holiday season is about spending time with friends and family and loved ones – this year we’re going to be in orbit away from them, so we want to send our heartfelt Merry Christmas and hope you have a wonderful holiday.”
The astronauts exchanged weightless candy canes as part of the festive message.
Hague also acknowledged the support of the mission control teams, stating that, “There’s a huge team on the ground that’s going to support us with mission controls around the globe over the holidays, and I want to thank them for the sacrifices they’re making together.”
Don Pettit added that the holidays are “synonymous with food and feasting,” showing off an airtight package of canned food.
This marks the second Christmas Williams has spent in space, as she also celebrated the festive season aboard the ISS in 2006.
Earlier this year, the crew was given a day off to celebrate Thanksgiving and took time away from their duties to cast their votes in the US election on 5 November.
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