Key Points
- Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were initially on an eight-day mission at the International Space Station (ISS).
- Due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner capsule, their return has been delayed.
- The Starliner will return to Earth without astronauts aboard, and Williams and Wilmore will return on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.
- The SpaceX Crew Dragon mission, part of a routine rotation, is scheduled to launch next month.
- Williams and Wilmore will stay at the ISS until February 2025, continuing their duties as part of the Expedition 71/72 crew.
Looma News
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who had arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) for what was planned to be an eight-day mission, will now stay in space much longer due to a technical problem with Boeing’s Starliner capsule. The issue with the Starliner’s propulsion system has led NASA to decide that it is safer to return the spacecraft uncrewed. As a result, the two astronauts will remain aboard the ISS until February 2025 and will return home on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.
Extended Mission and Safety Measures
NASA made the decision to keep Williams and Wilmore at the ISS based on a commitment to safety. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized that the choice reflects their dedication to ensuring that every aspect of space travel remains as safe as possible. The Starliner, having encountered issues such as helium leaks and problems with its reaction control thrusters, will make an uncrewed return to Earth early next month.
Upcoming Tasks and Duties
Despite the extended stay, Williams and Wilmore will continue to perform their crucial duties on the ISS. They will participate in a variety of tasks, including spacewalks, scientific experiments, and the maintenance of the space station. Their mission now transitions into a longer-term role as part of the Expedition 71/72 crew, and they will work alongside the new SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts arriving soon.
