Space Mission Lasted Eight Days, but Crew Might be Stranded Until 2025

When American astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita Williams launched on a test mission to the International Space Station on June 5, they anticipated a return within a few days.

However, the mission didn’t proceed as expected. Nearly two months later, they remain in orbit, with no end in sight. The duo now faces the possibility of missing the entire summer and even spending Christmas and New Year’s in space.

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Alternative Transport Needed for Return if Star liner is Unfit for Re-entry

Mr. Wilmore, 61, and Ms. Williams, 58, traveled to the space station aboard a Boeing Star liner spacecraft. This mission, the first crewed flight of its kind, was intended as a test to evaluate the spacecraft’s performance before it is used more frequently.

However, issues arose during the approach, including leaks in the propulsion system and some thrusters shutting down.

While they successfully reached the space station, they will require an alternative means of transportation for their return if the Star liner is not deemed safe for re-entry.

During a news briefing on Wednesday, NASA officials indicated that no final decisions have yet been made regarding the next steps.

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NASA Officials Estimate Decision Timeline of Over a Week

One possible solution being considered is to include the two astronauts on a mission set to launch in September and have them return to Earth with that mission in February 2025. This upcoming flight will be conducted by a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.

Originally, four crew members were planned for this mission, but if necessary, two seats could remain unoccupied.

This option would extend their stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to over eight months instead of the initial eight days.