Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were initially on an eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which has now extended to over two months. The astronauts have been on the ISS since June 5, after participating in Boeing‘s Starliner Crew Test mission. The delay in their return is due to ongoing evaluations of the Starliner’s safety following its launch issues.
NASA’s internal Agency Test Flight Readiness Review at the Johnson Space Center in Houston is set to take place just before the press conference. This review will help NASA leaders, including Bill Nelson, assess the flight rationale and the safest course of action for the astronauts’ return.
“According to NASA, a final decision is expected on Saturday regarding whether Sunita Williams will return to Earth aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft or SpaceX’s Dragon capsule.”
Reports from last week indicated that NASA is deliberating between continuing with the Starliner as originally planned or using the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for the astronauts’ return. The critical assessments are being carried out to ensure the safety of Williams and Wilmore, given the anomalies that have come to light.
“What started as an eight-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS) has now stretched to over two months in space for Williams and Wilmore—the first astronauts to travel on the long-delayed Starliner.”NASA’s priority remains the safe return of its astronauts. During the press conference, the team will provide updates on their progress and the ultimate decision regarding the spacecraft to be used for the return journey.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s mission aboard the Starliner marks an important milestone. They were the first astronauts to journey aboard this spacecraft, part of a test mission that aims to pave the way for future human spaceflights. The long delay and the current situation underscore the complexities and challenges involved in space explorations and the ongoing commitment to astronaut safety.