Mon Mar 31 18:28:58 UTC 2025: ## NASA Astronauts Thank Trump, Musk After Extended ISS Stay

**Houston, TX** – NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for their roles in their return to Earth after a nine-month extended stay at the International Space Station (ISS). Their mission aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft was significantly prolonged due to a malfunction.

In an interview with Fox News, the astronauts acknowledged the challenges of spaceflight and the complexities of utilizing new technologies. While their mission was unexpectedly extended, they emphasized their preparedness for a long-duration stay. Williams highlighted the extensive training undertaken, encompassing various aspects of ISS operations, ensuring they were equipped to handle any situation.

Wilmore, the mission commander, addressed speculation regarding blame for the Starliner malfunction, stating he preferred not to assign fault. While acknowledging that the mission didn’t go as planned, and that there were shortcomings in testing and preparation, he stressed the importance of focusing on future improvements rather than assigning blame to Boeing, NASA, or any individual. He admitted to oversights on his part, stating, “There are many questions that as the commander of CFT (crew flight test), I didn’t ask. So I’m culpable.”

The astronauts landed on March 18th aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule. President Trump previously claimed that the astronauts had been “abandoned” by the Biden administration, later announcing he authorized Musk to facilitate their return. The astronauts’ comments suggest a different perspective, focusing instead on the successful collaboration that ultimately brought them home safely.

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