After months of being stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA has finally confirmed the return date for the two astronauts who were launched into space earlier this year. Initially scheduled to return at the end of June, these astronauts have faced unexpected delays. Now, NASA has revealed when they will safely make it back to Earth.
After the successful launch at the beginning of June, the astronauts completed their mission. They were expected to return to Earth by the end of June, but it was reported that some issues had arisen with the Starliner spacecraft.
Initial reports suggested that the astronauts could return by the end of July. The two astronauts on the Space Station mentioned that they were not too unhappy with the situation and were helping the staff there.
According to the plan, the astronauts will not be on board during the September return. Boeing officials stated, 'Boeing continues to prioritize the safety of the crew and the spacecraft above all else. We are fulfilling the mission assigned by NASA and preparing the spacecraft for a safe and successful uncrewed return.'
NASA's statement mentioned, 'Wilmore and Williams will continue their official duties as part of the crew of Expedition 71/72 until February 2025.'
The four astronauts who have been on the ISS since March are scheduled to return to Earth at the end of September. It is reported that the spacecraft, which has a capacity of only four people, would not be safe to carry an additional two passengers. The NASA astronauts will have to wait for the SpaceX capsule to return to the ISS to make their way back to Earth.
The Starliner spacecraft, owned by Boeing, was making its first crewed flight. The company had predicted that the mission would be successfully completed after tests conducted in space and on Earth.