Sat Mar 15 03:30:00 UTC 2025: ## SpaceX Launches Crew-10 to ISS, Paving Way for Stranded Astronauts’ Return
**Cape Canaveral, FL** – A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the Crew-10 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) Friday evening, marking a crucial step in the return of two astronauts stranded for nine months. The launch, initially delayed due to a hydraulic system issue, carried four astronauts: Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers from NASA, Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), and Kirill Peskov from Roscosmos.
Crew-10 is the tenth crew rotation mission under SpaceX’s human space transportation system. The launch resolves the prolonged stay of veteran NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, whose mission extended far beyond its planned eight days due to a malfunctioning Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Their return to Earth is expected within days of the Crew-10 arrival at the ISS.
The situation has become embroiled in political controversy, with former President Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk alleging that President Biden intentionally delayed their return. These accusations, lacking specific evidence, sparked outrage within the space community, leading to a public exchange between Musk and Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen. Mr. Wilmore, while seemingly supporting Musk, admitted a lack of knowledge about the specifics. President Trump’s comments on the matter have also drawn criticism. The astronauts’ return plan has remained consistent since their reassignment to SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission.
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