The two astronauts who traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft may be stuck in space until 2025 due to ongoing issues with the spacecraft. On Wednesday, NASA announced a further delay in the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the ISS. Initially, the duo was scheduled for an eight-day mission in June, but complications with helium leaks and thruster failures have extended their stay for more than 60 days.
Harvard Astrophysicist Dr. Grant Tremblay emphasized NASA’s stringent safety protocols for human spaceflight. “NASA is no-nonsense when it comes to the safety of humans in space,” said Tremblay, underscoring the agency’s cautious approach. NASA has stated that if upcoming tests reveal that a return flight on the Starliner is too risky, the astronauts might have to wait until February to return to Earth on SpaceX’s CrewDragon, a spacecraft developed by Boeing’s rival.
The extended delay has put a spotlight on Boeing’s Starliner program, which has faced several setbacks over the years. Despite these challenges, NASA continues to prioritize the safety of its astronauts. The agency is conducting rigorous tests to determine the viability of a safe return flight on the Starliner. Meanwhile, Wilmore and Williams remain aboard the ISS, continuing their mission activities.
Dr. Tremblay reassured the public about the astronauts’ safety, noting that they are in no immediate danger. “The astronauts are safe, and they are well-equipped to handle an extended stay on the ISS,” he said.
This situation highlights the competitive nature of commercial spaceflight and the critical importance of reliability and safety in spacecraft design. As NASA navigates these challenges, the space agency remains committed to ensuring the well-being of its astronauts and the success of its missions.
