NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS), complicating their plans to return to Earth. When the astronauts launched to the ISS in June aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft on a test mission, they were expected to return home after just eight days. However, the spacecraft faced delays and issues prior to launch, and encountered further problems during the journey, leading engineers to postpone the mission to resolve these issues. NASA has now stated that it is uncertain whether the Starliner will be able to safely return the crew as planned. Instead, they may have to return home in February aboard a SpaceX spacecraft.
**Why are the Astronauts Stranded?**
Safety concerns have repeatedly delayed the astronauts' return home via the Starliner, leaving them stranded for over two months. However, NASA has confirmed that the astronauts are not completely stuck, as they would be able to return home in the event of an emergency aboard the space station.
**What Issues is the Starliner Facing?**
The primary issue involves a propulsion system failure observed when the Starliner docked with the space station in June. Engineers are also worried about a helium leak used to pressurize the thrusters. Boeing has been remotely testing the spacecraft to understand the problems and find solutions, hoping to reassure NASA that it is safe to return the astronauts. However, this testing revealed more issues, leading NASA to express doubt about the return.
**How Will the Astronauts Return Home?**
Boeing still hopes to address the concerns surrounding the Starliner. NASA has clarified that it is still working with the company to evaluate the spacecraft's readiness, and no decisions have been made regarding its return. This decision may not be reached until mid-August. If things go well for Boeing, the astronauts could return home as originally planned, albeit on a different timeline. However, if engineers' concerns persist, the astronauts may return home on a SpaceX flight scheduled to start in late September, which is currently planned to carry four astronauts. If necessary, two will be left behind, and the Starliner test crew will take those seats instead on the planned return to Earth in February.
Most current concerns focus on the safety of the Starliner if it remains in orbit for too long, with fears of resource depletion due to prolonged delays. The Starliner is designed for a 90-day stay, and it has now spent just over 60 days at the space station, so time is running out. Meanwhile, NASA has managed to send additional supplies to ensure the astronauts' comfort. This week, a SpaceX rocket delivered a supply capsule from Northrop Grumman, which contained food and supplies, including more food and clothing for the Starliner test pilots.
