NASA is facing a critical decision on how to safely bring home two astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) after unexpected issues with their spacecraft. According to the agency’s update on Tuesday, NASA plans to conduct two comprehensive reviews before making a final decision by the end of August.
The two reviews—a Program Control Board Review and an Agency Flight Readiness Review—will assess the best course of action to return astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to Earth. The astronauts arrived at the ISS on June 6 aboard the Boeing Starliner, following a launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 5.
During Starliner’s journey to the ISS, engineers observed that some of the spacecraft’s thrusters did not perform as expected, and several leaks were detected in Starliner’s helium system. In response, engineering teams from NASA and Boeing have conducted several thruster tests and in-depth data analyses to understand and resolve the issues.
As NASA continues to evaluate all options regarding Starliner’s propulsion system, the agency is considering alternative plans for the astronauts’ return. Wilmore and Williams may come back aboard the Starliner if the issues are resolved, or they could return as part of the SpaceX Crew-9 mission early next year.
The astronauts were initially scheduled for an eight-day stay on the ISS. However, due to the unforeseen technical challenges, their mission duration has been extended indefinitely until a safe return strategy is finalized.
This situation underscores the complexities and challenges of space exploration, highlighting the importance of rigorous testing and contingency planning in human spaceflight missions. The global space community watches closely as NASA works towards a solution that ensures the safety of its astronauts and the success of its ongoing missions.
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NASA to conduct two reviews on stranded astronauts' return status
cgtn.com