The two astronauts, whose return was scheduled after spending eight days in space, were postponed due to Starliner's technical setbacks, including thruster (or the jet engine) malfunctions and helium leaks. The NASA and Boeing engineers are conducting ground testing, detailed data reviews and developing return plans. The mission aimed to test the spacecraft's readiness and capability to safely transport people to ISS and return without mishap.“Spaceflight is risky, even at its safest and most routine,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson while commenting on the current situation. “The decision to keep Butch and Suni aboard the International Space Station and bring Boeing’s Starliner home uncrewed is the result of our commitment to safety,” he added. SpaceX Crew-9, which is set to be launched in September, will only have two passengers instead of the originally planned four. The space vehicle will be stationed in ISS and return only in June with the two crew members and the stranded astronauts. The delay in return has raised concerns regarding food and oxygen supply. However, NASA has assured that there is no immediate danger and sufficient provisions will sustain the two crew members. Although medical experts have flagged issues regarding the health of the astronauts, including risks of space anaemia, vision issues and even mental well-being, NASA has reassured that the two astronauts are healthy. The situation turned out to be a testing one for Boeing since it had already been facing scrutiny over safety concerns regarding its aeroplanes. Despite that, NASA has shown support for them. Boeing has not let the setback affect their mission and said in its statement that it would be “focusing on the safety of the crew.” The aerospace company added, “We are executing the mission as determined by NASA, and we are preparing for a safe and successful un-crewed return.”
After speculations regarding the return of the two stranded astronauts, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has confirmed that Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore are set to return in June 2025. The Boeing Starliner Capsule, which was supposed to bring back the astronauts, is returning without them. The astronauts who reached the International Space Station (ISS) on June 6, 2024, will have to stay for nine more months and are set to return in Elon Musk’s SpaceX Dragon Capsule.
05 Oct 2024
Anika K
