Stranded NASA astronauts send Christmas message from space | Science, climate and technology news

Astronauts stranded on the International Space Station over Christmas have sent a festive message back to Earth.

Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore, Don Pettit and Nick Hague were launched into space on June 5 for an eight-day test flight mission.

But the Boeing-made Starliner spacecraft experienced several technical problems, including helium leaks and engine failures, and has not been able to return since.

In the video message recorded on December 23, Mr Hague says: “The holiday season is about spending time with friends, family and loved ones – this year we will be in orbit far away from them, so we want to send us.” We wish you a very Merry Christmas and hope that you have wonderful holidays.

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In the clip, the astronauts pass weightless candy canes to each other, and Mr Hague adds: “We’re not the only ones who will be spending time away from their families.”

“There is a huge team on the ground that will be supporting us in mission control around the globe over the holidays, and I want to thank them for the sacrifices they are making together.”

Finally, Mr. Pettit says the holidays are “synonymous with food and feasting” as they showcase airtight packaging of canned goods.

It’s not the first Christmas Ms Williams has spent defying gravity – in 2006 she was in space during the Christmas season.

Last month, the crew was given a day off to celebrate Thanksgiving – and also took time off from their duties to vote in the US election on November 5th.