NASA Astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore Await Return from ISS Due to Starliner Issues

NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams are currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) with no set return date due to mechanical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Originally scheduled to return on June 14, their mission has been delayed multiple times.

Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, stated, “We are taking our time and following our standard mission management team process.” He added that they are letting the data drive their decision-making regarding the small helium system leaks and thruster performance observed during rendezvous and docking.

The Starliner, with flight commander Barry “Butch” Wilmore and flight pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams onboard, was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 5 and arrived at the ISS on June 6. The mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program to certify Boeing’s spacecraft for routine missions to and from the ISS.

NASA and Boeing have assured that the astronauts are safe and have ample supplies. The crew is integrated with the Expedition 71 crew aboard the ISS, assisting with station operations and completing objectives for NASA’s possible certification of Starliner.

Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing’s Starliner program, mentioned that the crew’s feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and that every bit of learning from the Crew Flight Test will improve future missions.

Starliner has faced several issues even before launch, including delays due to an oxygen valve problem and a small helium leak. Despite these challenges, NASA and Boeing are working to ensure the spacecraft’s safe return.