NASA has revealed a strange odor emanated from a Russian spacecraft's hatch, leaving scientists stunned and searching for answers.
The space agency didn't provide information about the smell's origin or composition, but they did acknowledge that an unusual stench was detected when the hatch was opened.
Details are slim, but sources close to the matter indicate that the smell wasn't there before the spaceflight.
This has left experts confused, with possible explanations ranging from leaking fuel to biological or chemical contamination.
Space travel produces a variety of unique challenges that make this sort of incident an unfortunate yet intriguing side effect of space exploration.
Although NASA hasn't spoken about potential implications of the unsettling occurrence, experts say there is a possibility the smell could serve as a warning of more pressing issues such as issues related to the ventilation or an impending breakdown.
Despite efforts from top space agencies around the world to sanitize spacecrafts for deep space travels and minimize the stench that emanates, a small amount of pungent smells might actually serve as an unsung benefit - effectively warning space researchers about problems before disaster strikes.