Boeing Starliner's Delayed Mission Extends NASA Astronauts' ISS Stay
The Boeing Starliner was supposed to have NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore on an eight-day mission, but technical issues have required them to stay on the ISS for eight more months. SpaceX Crew-9 will bring them back next February. NASA's regular resupply missions ensure that the astronauts' needs are met during this extended stay.
In June, the Boeing Starliner launched to the International Space Station carrying NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore for an intended eight-day mission.
However, propulsion issues, including helium leaks and thruster problems, postponed their return, extending the mission by eight months.
The mission aimed to validate the Starliner's human transport capabilities, a market dominated by SpaceX.
Rescue came via NASA's SpaceX Crew-9 mission, with astronauts Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov, which will return Williams and Wilmore in February next year.
Concerns about food and oxygen supplies were allayed, as NASA confirmed the ISS has sufficient provisions, and resupply missions continue regularly.
Onboard, Williams and Wilmore utilize the ISS Veggie garden for fresh produce and engage in experiments to advance space agriculture.
However, propulsion issues, including helium leaks and thruster problems, postponed their return, extending the mission by eight months.
The mission aimed to validate the Starliner's human transport capabilities, a market dominated by SpaceX.
Rescue came via NASA's SpaceX Crew-9 mission, with astronauts Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov, which will return Williams and Wilmore in February next year.
Concerns about food and oxygen supplies were allayed, as NASA confirmed the ISS has sufficient provisions, and resupply missions continue regularly.
Onboard, Williams and Wilmore utilize the ISS Veggie garden for fresh produce and engage in experiments to advance space agriculture.
