NASA is taking decisive steps to ensure the safe return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS). Following their arrival on June 6 aboard the Boeing Starliner, the agency has identified issues with the spacecraft's thrusters and helium system, prompting a thorough evaluation.
The agency will undertake two comprehensive reviews: a Program Control Board Review and an Agency Flight Readiness Review. These evaluations are set to conclude by the end of August, after which NASA will decide the best course of action to bring the astronauts back home safely.
During the Starliner’s journey to the ISS, engineers observed that some thrusters did not perform as expected and detected several leaks in the helium system. In response, NASA and Boeing have been conducting extensive thruster tests and in-depth data analyses to fully understand and address the spacecraft's propulsion issues.
As NASA continues to assess all available options, the astronauts' return could occur aboard the Starliner once the issues are resolved, or alternatively, through the agency's SpaceX Crew-9 mission scheduled for early next year. Originally, Wilmore and Williams were slated to spend eight days aboard the ISS, but their mission has been extended due to these technical challenges.
The situation underscores the complexities of space missions and NASA's commitment to prioritizing astronaut safety above all else. As the agency navigates these challenges, it remains focused on ensuring that their return is executed with the utmost care and precision.
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NASA to conduct two reviews on stranded astronauts' return status
cgtn.com
