In a tense moment aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Nasa astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were forced to take emergency shelter in Boeing's Starliner spacecraft and other return vehicles.

The emergency order was issued as space debris threatened the orbiting laboratory on Wednesday.

The incident occurred when Nasa was informed of a satellite break-up at an altitude near the station.

As a standard precautionary measure, Mission Control instructed all crew members to seek shelter in their respective spacecraft. Williams and Wilmore, who have been aboard the ISS since June 5, took refuge in the Starliner capsule.

For approximately an hour, Mission Control closely monitored the path of the debris while the astronauts remained in their protective shelters. After determining that the immediate threat had passed, the crew was given the all-clear to exit their spacecraft and resume normal operations on the station.

This event highlights the ongoing challenge of space debris and the importance of safety protocols in orbital operations. It also demonstrated the Starliner's capability to serve as a potential lifeboat in emergency situations, a crucial function for any crew vehicle docked at the ISS.

The incident comes amid an already extended stay for Williams and Wilmore, whose return to Earth has been delayed due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft.

Originally scheduled for an 8-day mission, the astronauts have now been in space for over three weeks as Nasa and Boeing work to resolve helium leaks and thruster problems that have plagued the capsule.

Despite these challenges, Nasa has maintained that the Starliner is capable of safely returning the astronauts to Earth if absolutely necessary. This recent shelter-in-place event further underscores the spacecraft's vital role in ensuring crew safety.

As space activities continue to increase, the management of orbital debris remains a critical concern for space agencies worldwide. 

Source: India Today