When will astronaut Sunita Williams come back to Earth? NASA shares big update

Digital Desk: Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butchwilmore have been stranded in space since June 6, their eight-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS) extending to over two months. The unusual delay has stemmed from technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which they were the first to fly aboard.

NASA is facing a critical decision regarding their return. The agency is expected to finalize its choice on August 24, determining whether Williams and Willmore will return to Earth aboard Boeing's Starliner or SpaceX’s Dragon capsule. The space agency's statement indicates that this decision will follow a thorough review at an agency-level meeting.

The trouble began as Starliner approached the ISS. The spacecraft encountered a series of technical difficulties, including the failure of several thrusters and helium leaks in its propulsion system. Although engineers managed to restore four out of the five malfunctioning thrusters, concerns remain about ensuring a safe de-orbit and landing.

Boeing has asserted the safety of Starliner, yet NASA officials remain cautious. Should NASA deem the Starliner unfit for crewed return, the spacecraft will undock uncrewed from the ISS. Consequently, Williams and Willmore would then have to wait for the SpaceX Dragon capsule, which is now scheduled to return in February 2025. This delay is due to the postponement of SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission to the ISS, now set for September 24.

Boeing's Starliner has faced numerous setbacks over the years. After a problematic debut in 2019, the spacecraft completed its first uncrewed orbital flight mission in 2022. The company has invested over $1.5 billion into the Starliner program, with NASA providing about $4.2 billion for its development and operations.

In contrast, SpaceX’s Dragon capsules, launched aboard Falcon 9 rockets, have proven to be reliable since their debut in 2020. SpaceX has successfully executed around 12 flights to the ISS, reflecting a robust track record in crewed and cargo missions.

Both Starliner and Dragon were part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, designed to transport astronauts and cargo to and from low Earth orbit, and eventually to destinations like the Moon and Mars. As NASA evaluates the best course of action for Williams and Willmore, the decision emphasizes the challenges and high stakes involved in modern spaceflight.