The latest news regarding the astronauts stuck in space revolves around two U.S. astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who are currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS). They were supposed to return to Earth aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, due to unresolved technical issues, NASA has decided to bring the Starliner back to Earth without a crew. The decision was made to avoid any risks associated with the spacecraft’s performance after it encountered multiple issues, including helium leaks and problems with smaller thrusters during its mission to the ISS in June 2024.
As a result, Williams and Wilmore are expected to remain in space for at least 240 days, potentially extending to nearly 270 days if their return is delayed until March 2025. This extended duration is not a record for space missions, as previous astronauts have spent even longer periods in space. For now, NASA plans to use a SpaceX vehicle to bring the astronauts back, but a confirmed return date has not yet been set NASA and Space.com and Phys.org
NASA has announced a significant change in its mission plan involving the troubled Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which will now return to Earth without its crew. This decision means astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been aboard the International Space Station (ISS) since June, will remain in space until February, using a SpaceX mission for their eventual return.
🚀NASA plans to send 2 astronauts instead of 4 to ISS so pair stranded by troubled Boeing Starliner can return
NASA is sending 2 astronauts, Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov, on the next SpaceX mission to the ISS instead of 4. This change allows stranded astronauts Suni… pic.twitter.com/Oa4xIndPA5
— Danny Bargeman (@danny_barg71240) August 31, 2024
The Starliner, which has been facing technical challenges including thruster issues and helium leaks, will be sent back to Earth without any astronauts. Instead, NASA has opted to utilize the next SpaceX mission for the safe return of the stranded crew members. NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov are set to launch for the ISS at the end of September, while two other astronauts, Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson, were removed from the mission to make space for Williams and Wilmore on the return trip.
The decision to alter the crew configuration was made by NASA’s chief astronaut, Joe Acaba, who had to ensure both the safe command of the flight and the operational integrity of the ISS, which relies on the expertise of both NASA and Roscosmos personnel. Acaba explained that the reshuffling of the crew was a tough call, especially since the astronauts had been training together as a team of four. However, he expressed full confidence in the ability of Hague and Gorbunov to fulfill their roles effectively aboard the ISS.
The realignment has been necessary due to the technical issues plaguing the Boeing Starliner, which has not yet proven itself ready for manned missions beyond initial tests. The U.S. previously relied on Russian spacecraft to ferry astronauts to the ISS after the retirement of the Space Shuttle program in 2011, following the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003.
Nick Hague, an experienced astronaut and a colonel in the U.S. Space Force, has three previous launches to his name, including two missions to the ISS. His first launch in 2018 included a dramatic safe reentry after a rocket booster failure, demonstrating his capability in handling critical situations in space. For Gorbunov, this mission marks his first journey into space, adding a layer of new experience to the mix.
Despite being cut from the current mission, both Cardman and Wilson have expressed their support for the decision and their colleagues. Cardman, in a statement, highlighted her pride in the team and confidence in Hague and Gorbunov. Wilson echoed these sentiments, looking forward to future opportunities when the timing is more favorable.
NASA Extends Boeing Starliner Astronauts’ Space Station Stay to 2025
Persistent concerns with the vehicle’s propulsion systems mean Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore will return home next year in a SpaceX vehicle. pic.twitter.com/mQuu06IReQ
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NASA’s decision to keep Williams and Wilmore on the ISS until February aligns with its ongoing commitment to safety and mission success. As the aerospace community watches closely, the situation underscores the challenges and complexities of space travel, particularly with new spacecraft like Boeing’s Starliner. The success of this mission will likely impact future decisions regarding crewed space travel and NASA’s partnerships with private space companies.
Key Points:
i. NASA decided to keep astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore on the ISS until February due to issues with the Boeing Starliner.
ii. The Starliner will return to Earth without a crew because of technical problems, including thruster and helium leak issues.
iii. NASA adjusted its crew for the next SpaceX mission, removing two astronauts to accommodate Williams and Wilmore’s eventual return.
iv. The crew adjustments ensure both safety and operational needs of the ISS are met.
v. This move reflects ongoing challenges with new spacecraft and NASA’s focus on safe space travel and mission success.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
