New Delhi: NASA has confirmed that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule. This decision comes after their mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, initially planned as an eight-day mission, was extended by over two months due to technical issues.
Extended Mission Due to Technical Challenges
The mission, which began on June 5, 2024, was supposed to be a short-term test of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, issues including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions forced NASA and Boeing to extend the mission for further investigation. The astronauts, who have now spent nearly 80 days in space, continued to gather valuable data on the spacecraft’s propulsion and helium systems during this period.
NASA’s Review and Decision
On August 24, 2024, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson led an internal Test Flight Readiness Review to assess the mission’s progress and challenges. The review included a comprehensive analysis of the technical issues faced by the Starliner and considered the safest and most effective way to bring the crew back to Earth. The decision was made to use SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for the return trip, given its proven track record with nine successful crewed missions for NASA since 2020.
The Future of Boeing’s Starliner Program
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which also includes SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. While SpaceX has already completed several missions, Boeing’s Starliner is on its first crewed test flight. Despite the challenges, the data collected during this mission is crucial for the future of the Starliner program, which has at least six more planned crewed flights under NASA’s multibillion-dollar contract.
Upcoming Return to Earth
NASA has announced that the astronauts will remain aboard the International Space Station until February 2025, when they will return to Earth via SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. This decision ensures that the astronauts will have a safe and reliable return after an unexpectedly extended mission. The extended mission has provided NASA and Boeing with critical insights, ensuring that future Starliner missions will be more secure and efficient. However, after nearly 80 days in space, a return is essential as the prolonged stay is starting to affect the health of Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore. For now, they continue their work aboard the ISS, preparing for their eventual return home.