Sun Sep 15 17:12:01 UTC 2024: ## Astronauts Stranded on ISS Due to Starliner Issues, Forced to Stay Until 2025
**Houston, TX** – NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, initially scheduled for an eight-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), are now facing an extended stay until 2025 due to technical problems with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. The pair, who launched in early 2023, were meant to return home on the Starliner, but issues with its thrusters and a helium leak raised safety concerns, forcing NASA to postpone their return.
While the astronauts initially remained optimistic, recent interviews have revealed their growing unease with the situation. Wilmore, 61, expressed the need for “some changes” to be made to the Starliner, admitting that certain issues made them “uncomfortable” with using the capsule for their return.
“We found some things that we just could not get comfortable with putting us back in the Starliner,” Wilmore told The Independent. He acknowledged the experimental nature of the Starliner and the potential for unforeseen problems. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring the crew’s safety, noting that they were “fortunate” to have the ISS as a safe haven and the option to return home via the SpaceX Crew Dragon in February 2024.
Despite the setback, the Starliner successfully completed its unmanned return to Earth on September 6th, although it experienced propulsion and orientation issues during the flight. While these problems did not affect the capsule’s landing in New Mexico, they further highlighted the need for thorough investigation and adjustments before future crewed missions.
Despite the unforeseen circumstances, Wilmore maintains a positive attitude, stating that he has “no benefit to fretting” over the situation. Williams, his crewmate, also expressed her comfort with being in space, calling it her “happy place.” However, the extended stay will mean missing Christmas with their families and a lengthy wait for their return home.
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