Retrieval of stranded astronauts delayed until 2025

Two NASA astronauts stuck in space for over two months will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX. 

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) two months ago on a Boeing Starliner spacecraft that NASA has said would return to Earth “uncrewed.” 

The duo departed on what was meant to be an eight-day mission on the 5th of June but will now spend around eight months in orbit. 

The Starliner experienced problems on its way to the ISS, including leaks of helium, which pushed fuel into the propulsion system. Several thrusters also needed to be fixed. 

NASA granted both Boeing and SpaceX contracts to conduct commercial space flights for its astronauts. Boeing’s contract was valued at $4.2 billion, while SpaceX, founded by billionaire Elon Musk, received $2.6 billion.

Now, SpaceX, with its successful track record of nine crewed flights for NASA and various commercial missions, is set to bring the astronauts home, while this was Boeing’s inaugural mission attempt.

Boeing and NASA engineers have shown unwavering dedication, investing months in analysing the technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft. They have conducted numerous tests and collected data in space and on Earth, all with the singular goal of identifying the underlying problems and devising a safe method for returning the astronauts home aboard the Starliner.

During a press conference on Saturday, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson stated that Boeing has been collaborating with NASA to identify necessary improvements for the spacecraft.

He said: “Space flight is a risk, even at its safest and even at its most routine, and a test flight, by nature, is neither safe nor routine.

“Our core value is safety, and it is our north star.” 

The pair’s stay on the ISS has been extended until February 2025, when they will return on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. SpaceX will launch its next vehicle at the end of September, and plans call for the spacecraft to dock with the space station. 

Initially intended for four astronauts, the spacecraft will now carry only two, allowing Mr Wilmore and Ms Williams to join the mission and return to Earth at the end of its planned duration in February.

NASA has confirmed that both astronauts had prior experience with two extended stays in space and were aware of the risks involved in the test flight, which included an extended stay aboard the station.

The organisation announced that Mr Wilmore, 61, and Ms Williams, 58, have fully supported their return plans. Over the next few months, they are scheduled to engage in scientific work, space maintenance, and potentially conduct some spacewalks.

Boeing’s Starliner has faced significant delays in its development, pushing back its launch for several years. Additionally, previous uncrewed flights have encountered technical issues.

Boeing issued a statement stating that it continues to focus on “the safety of the crew and spacecraft.” 

They added, “We are executing the mission as determined by NASA and preparing for a safe and successful uncrewed return.”