NASA Addresses Concerns Over Astronauts’ Extended Stay in Space

NASA has reaffirmed that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are not ‘stuck’ in space. The U.S. space agency emphasized that both astronauts are safe aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and are actively involved in ongoing operations and testing.

The pair launched aboard Boeing‘s Starliner on June 5, 2024, successfully arriving at the ISS the following day. However, their planned return has been delayed due to technical issues encountered during the spacecraft’s flight.

NASA reported that during the Starliner’s journey, several thrusters failed to function as expected, and leaks were identified in the spacecraft’s helium system. The agency is diligently investigating these issues to determine the root cause and address the technical problems before finalizing a return plan.

Concerned parties have raised the possibility of an emergency return situation. In such an event, NASA indicated they might adjust their upcoming SpaceX Crew-9 mission, potentially launching only two crew members instead of four.

As of now, no decision has been made regarding whether Williams and Wilmore will return on the Starliner or via a SpaceX flight. NASA noted that both astronauts are prepared for various scenarios and understand the potential for an extended stay aboard the ISS.

Typically, astronauts stay at the ISS for approximately six months. However, extended missions have been part of NASA’s operational history, and both Williams and Wilmore have previously completed long-duration stays aboard the ISS.

NASA is expected to make a decision regarding Starliner’s return by the end of August. Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of NASA’s Space Operations Mission Directorate, highlighted the timeline for a decision in light of the ongoing evaluations.

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced indicating that Sunita Williams is experiencing some health issues, including visual difficulties, which adds urgency to the situation.