"Family and Hometown News First" US Astronaut Worries About COVID-19 Even at 418km Above Earth

"Same Heart for All Citizens of the World"
Scheduled to Return to Earth in Early August
Florida Landing Site's Marine Climate Is Key

Astronauts from the United States and Russia who successfully docked on May 31 held a press conference at the International Space Station (ISS). / Photo by NASA

[Asia Economy Reporter Seunggon Han, Intern Reporter Juhyung Lim] NASA astronauts working on the International Space Station (ISS), located 418 km from Earth, have expressed their concerns about the Earth society facing a crisis due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

The American media outlet 'USA Today' reported on the 7th that three NASA astronauts who left Earth in May (local time) and arrived at the ISS have conveyed their worries about COVID-19.

Chris Cassidy, who is working in the orbital laboratory, said in an interview with the media, "We are worried about our families and humanity."

He continued, "We can demonstrate diligence and concentration while performing our mission, but during rest time, we spend time finding out the latest news from our hometown," explaining, "We often hurry to find out what is happening to our families and the world."

An artist's composite image depicting the SpaceX crewed spacecraft docking with the ISS. / Photo by SpaceX

He added, "We wish for everyone's health," and "We have the same feelings for all citizens of the world."

The three astronauts arrived at the ISS 19 hours after flying aboard SpaceX's manned spacecraft 'Crew Dragon' on May 31. Since then, they have been conducting various experiments and maintenance work on the ISS for 43 days.

Their return to Earth is scheduled for early August, but it is reported that it may be moved forward or delayed depending on the weather.

In particular, they explained that the U.S. maritime climate will be a key factor in determining the success of the landing.

NASA astronaut Bob Behnken said, "We need to wait a little longer to predict the weather off the coast of Florida, USA, between August and September," adding, "Because hurricanes and lightning storms can suddenly occur."

He added, "Before executing the (return) plan, we need to wait about two weeks to better understand the weather more frequently."