NASA to Announce Return Plans for Astronauts Williams and Wilmore from ISS

NASA is preparing to provide a significant update regarding the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS). The astronauts were initially launched on June 5 aboard Boeing‘s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft for an eight-day mission, which has now extended to nearly 80 days due to technical challenges faced by the spacecraft.

The issues encountered include thruster failures and helium leaks, prompting NASA to conduct thorough assessments to ensure the safety of the Starliner and its crew. This evaluation process involves a Program Control Board and an Agency Flight Readiness Review, with the final decision expected following these evaluations.

Nasa administrator Bill Nelson and other officials are scheduled to discuss the findings from these reviews during a press conference at 1 PM EDT (11 PM IST). The agency is weighing whether to proceed with the Starliner for the astronauts’ return or to switch to SpaceX‘s Crew Dragon capsule as a backup option. Opting for the Crew Dragon could delay their return significantly, potentially pushing it to February 2025.

The outcome of this announcement is critical for Boeing, which has already experienced financial difficulties during the development of the Starliner. This decision not only impacts the immediate return of Williams and Wilmore but also the future of crewed missions and the collaborations between NASA and commercial partners like Boeing and SpaceX.

As the space community awaits the announcement, the astronauts remain engaged in scientific research aboard the ISS, despite the uncertainty about their return timeline.