Starliner astronauts will be stuck at the ISS for even longer

Two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are hit with a new delay after months of being stuck in the International Space Station.

The first crew to fly Boeing’s Starliner in June was originally meant for a brief mission, lasting about eight to 10 days. However, this month the crew marked their sixth month on the Space Station and are currently dealing with a new delay.

The initial launch itself was delayed a few times due to technical issues and concerns such as failed maneuvering thrusters and a helium leak. Due to technical problems, Starliner returned to Earth without any crew on board in September, leaving astronauts on the ISS longer than planned. They are now marking six months in space as of December 5th.

In order to return the astronauts, a new SpaceX craft was planned to be issued; however, NASA pushed back the mission until February 2025.

While crediting that their training played a crucial role in helping them adapt to the unexpected delay, Williams and Wilmore expressed disappointment about missing planned time with their families. With yet another delay in their return, the astronauts will spend a total of nine months on the ISS.

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