Two NASA astronauts, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, who have been in space for over two months, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX spacecraft.
Extended Mission Due to Starliner Issues
The astronauts initially embarked on an eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5, 2024, aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, the mission has been extended to around eight months due to technical issues encountered during the journey.
Starliner Malfunctions Lead to Uncrewed Return
NASA has confirmed that the Boeing Starliner, which carried Williams and Wilmore to the ISS, will return to Earth without a crew. The decision follows a series of malfunctions, including helium leaks that affected the propulsion system and the failure of several thrusters.
Return via SpaceX in 2025
Given the challenges with the Starliner, NASA has arranged for the astronauts’ return aboard a SpaceX spacecraft. They are expected to land back on Earth in February 2025, marking the end of an unexpectedly prolonged mission.
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