Two American astronauts, Mr. Wilmore and Ms. Williams, embarked on a historic test mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5. Initially planned as an eight-day voyage, their stay in space has become uncertain, with the possibility of extending into 2025. This extension could see them missing the summer and spending Christmas and New Year aboard the ISS.
Mission Troubles Extend Astronauts’ Stay Aboard ISS into 2025
Mr. Wilmore, 61, and Ms. Williams, 58, were aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, marking the first crewed flight of this new vehicle. The mission was intended to evaluate the spacecraft’s performance before it was used regularly. Unfortunately, the mission encountered unexpected problems, including propulsion system leaks and thruster malfunctions, which complicated their return plans.
NASA Considers SpaceX Crew Dragon for Potential Return in February 2025
While the astronauts reached the ISS safely, the Starliner’s ability to return them to Earth remains in question. NASA officials have been exploring alternative options to ensure the astronauts can return safely. At a recent briefing, Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, noted, “Our primary option is to return Butch and Suni on Starliner. However, we are also preparing backup plans.”
One potential solution involves using a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, scheduled for launch in September. If implemented, this plan would see the astronauts return to Earth in February 2025, extending their ISS stay from eight days to over eight months. The Crew Dragon mission, initially designed to carry four crew members, could accommodate the two astronauts by leaving two seats empty if necessary. Under this plan, the Starliner would return to Earth unmanned and under computer control.
Starliner’s Return Capability in Doubt Following Propulsion Issues
NASA’s decision-making process is ongoing, and a final decision could take several weeks. Ken Bowersox, NASA’s director of space operations, indicated that the likelihood of an uncrewed Starliner return has increased in recent weeks. “We’re examining this option closely to ensure we can manage it effectively,” he said.
Boeing Faces Setback as SpaceX Rockets Supply and Contingency Plan
Using a SpaceX spacecraft to bring the astronauts back would be a setback for Boeing, which has been competing with SpaceX in the commercial spaceflight arena. The Crew Dragon has been NASA-approved for missions since 2020, while Boeing was hoping that the Starliner’s maiden flight would pave the way for regular use of its capsule.
Recently, NASA used a SpaceX rocket to deliver additional supplies to the ISS, including extra clothing for the astronauts. Despite the extended duration of their mission, Mr. Wilmore and Ms. Williams have maintained a positive outlook.
Astronauts Remain Positive Despite Prolonged Space Mission
In a previous briefing, Ms. Williams, a retired Navy helicopter pilot making her third ISS visit, and Mr. Wilmore, a former fighter jet pilot on his third spaceflight, expressed their confidence in the mission and their adaptation to the extended stay.
Ms. Williams described their experience on the ISS positively, stating, “We’ve been thoroughly busy up here, fully integrated into the crew. It feels great to be in space, working with the ISS team. It’s like coming back home.”
While their extended stay may be longer than originally planned, they remain upbeat. Historical records of long-duration space missions show that extended stays are not unprecedented. Russian astronaut Valeri Polyakov spent 437 days aboard the Mir space station in the mid-1990s. More recently, American astronaut Frank Rubio returned from the ISS after spending 371 days in space, and Russian astronaut Oleg Kononenko has accumulated over 1,000 days in space across multiple missions.
As the situation evolves, the astronauts continue their work aboard the ISS, contributing to ongoing research and operations. Their flexibility and positive attitude highlight the resilience and adaptability required for space missions. NASA’s ongoing efforts to ensure their safe return underscore the complexities and challenges of space travel.
