Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have encountered an unexpected problem — the appearance of an unpleasant odor. This happened after a Russian Progress cargo spacecraft docked to the orbital outpost.
According to a NASA statement, after docking, the crew smelled an odor and saw small droplets that appeared in the Poisk module. In response, the astronauts isolated the module, activated air purifiers and contamination sensors. However, some sources believe the space agency is downplaying the seriousness of the situation.
Toxic odor and safety precautions
As ARS Technica notes, the hatch between Poisk and Progress had to be immediately closed because of the toxic odor and possible danger from spreading droplets. At the same time, U.S. astronaut Don Pettit smelled an odor similar to spray paint on the other side of the station, although the connection between the incidents remains unclear.
To neutralize the odor, a micropollution control system was activated on the U.S. side, and the astronauts wore protective equipment and plugged in additional filters.
Problems with Russian modules
This incident is not the first with such problems. In 2023, Russian Soyuz and Progress spacecraft suffered serious coolant leaks, causing tensions between NASA and Roscosmos. A possible collision with space debris has been given as the cause, but there are still no definitive conclusions. There is also still oxygen leaking out rapidly in the Russian segment of the ISS due to a hole in the hull.
Tensions and challenges
The current situation is likely to further aggravate relations between NASA and Roscosmos. While both agencies continue to cooperate on the ISS, such incidents make collaboration difficult. Additionally, NASA has its own technical problems on the station that need to be solved.
Another problem on the ISS once again emphasizes the complexity of working in space and the need to strengthen safety measures.
Provided by spacenews.com
