Did a NASA Astronaut Drill a Hole on the ISS? Unveiling the Truth

News: In August of 2018, an incident occurred on the International Space Station (ISS) when it suffered a depressurization caused by an enigmatic 2mm-wide drill hole. This event sparked conjecture, with some pointing fingers at NASA astronaut Serena Auñón-Chancellor. As time passed, these accusations gained momentum, leaving us to ponder the genuine facts surrounding the “NASA astronaut drill hole” controversy.

The Reported Incident:

In August 2018, the International Space Station (ISS) experienced a depressurization incident, leading to assertions from Russian state media that Serena Auñón-Chancellor deliberately drilled a hole. However, NASA swiftly responded by refuting these allegations, with their administrator, Bill Nelson, categorically dismissing the rumors as unfounded and lacking credibility.

Elaborating on the Particulars:

To clarify the situation, it’s important to emphasize that the drill hole was discovered in a Soyuz spacecraft docked at the ISS, not on the ISS structure itself. The Soyuz spacecraft functions as the return vehicle for the ISS crew. In response to the leak, the astronauts ingeniously used toothpaste to create a temporary seal.

NASA’s Reaction:

From the very beginning, NASA has consistently and unequivocally stood by its astronauts, reaffirming their integrity and professionalism. NASA vehemently rejects the accusations made by Russian media and maintains that no NASA astronaut would ever partake in such conduct.

Russia’s Inquiry:

The Russian space agency carried out a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Nevertheless, the results of this investigation have not been disclosed to the public. Speculation continues regarding the possibility of legal action against Serena Auñón-Chancellor, although these reports have yet to be substantiated.

Persistent Controversy:

The controversy surrounding the “NASA astronaut drills hole” incident persists without signs of abating. Russian state media and certain officials continue to engage in speculation, even in the absence of concrete evidence implicating Serena Auñón-Chancellor or any other astronaut.

The drill hole incident on the ISS remains a complex and contentious matter characterized by conflicting claims. However, NASA remains steadfast in its support of its astronauts and consistently rebuffs any allegations of misconduct. Only time will tell whether the truth behind this incident will eventually emerge in full.

FAQs:

– When was the discovery of the drill hole on the International Space Station (ISS) made?
The drill hole was detected in August 2018.

– Who is the person accused of drilling the hole?

Russian media alleges that NASA astronaut Serena Auñón-Chancellor is responsible, but NASA denies these accusations.

– Precisely where was the hole located?

The hole was located in a Soyuz spacecraft docked at the ISS, not on the ISS itself.

– What was NASA’s reaction to the accusations?
NASA strongly denies any claims of wrongdoing by its astronauts and maintains their innocence.