NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, who have been in space for over two months, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX spacecraft.
The pair launched on June 5, 2024, for what was initially planned as an eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS) using Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, technical challenges have extended their mission to around eight months.
Starliner’s Technical Issues
The Starliner faced significant problems during its journey to the ISS, including helium leaks that disrupted the fuel propulsion system and malfunctioning thrusters. These issues prevented a safe return to Earth for the astronauts.
NASA awarded contracts to Boeing and SpaceX for commercial space flights, with Boeing receiving $4.2 billion and SpaceX $2.6 billion. While SpaceX completed nine crewed flights for NASA, this mission marked Boeing’s first attempt at a crewed flight, which encountered several setbacks.
Boeing and NASA engineers have spent months addressing the Starliner’s technical issues. Through extensive testing and data analysis in space and on Earth, they have worked to identify the root causes and ensure a safe return for the astronauts.
Extended ISS Mission and Return Plan
Due to the challenges with Starliner, NASA extended Williams and Wilmore’s stay on the ISS until February 2025. They will return aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. SpaceX’s next mission, scheduled for the end of September 2024, will now carry only two astronauts instead of the planned four, leaving space for Williams and Wilmore to join the return journey.
NASA stated that both astronauts, who have completed long-duration space missions before, fully support the extended mission. During their additional time on the ISS, they will continue scientific research, space maintenance and potentially engage in spacewalks. Despite the setbacks, Boeing remains focused on safety, working closely with NASA to ensure the Starliner’s eventual uncrewed return is successful.
