Recently, NASA disclosed that Astronaut Sunita Williams and her fellow crew member Butch Wilmore may face the possibility of an extended stay in space until 2025. The Space Agency announced that due to advancing complications, they are considering prolonging the stay of both astronauts aboard the ISS (International Space Station) for the next 6 months, until early 2025. Now, they may have to rely on their return on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.

Sunita Williams could be stuck in space for a few more months. NASA’s revelations have sent chills across the world. There is one ongoing situation regarding the safe return of Sunita and Wilmore to Earth. Firstly, if NASA decides to bring its Starliner back without the crew members, both Sunita and Wilmore will be stuck on ISS up to late February 2025. In this case, NASA would make changes in its SpaceX Crew-9 mission and would opt to send two instead of four crew members in late September. Sunita and Butch would then mark their return earlier in 2025, once the Crew-9 mission is concluded.

Possibility Of Return

NASA intends to bring the astronauts on a SpaceX flight. This will then leave the Starliner return uncrewed. At present, NASA is examining additional data related to the Starliner’s performance and might come up with a decision this weekend or earlier next week. NASA is currently concerned about the malfunctioning thrusters, which are significant for the maintenance of the capsule’s orientation for the time of re-entry.

Reason For Delay In Return

The brief test mission started with higher expectations and enthusiasm but was subjected to a lot of technical glitches upon arriving at ISS. The malfunction in Starliner has resulted in serious doubt regarding its safe return to Earth. The technical issues have Sunita and Butch in an unwanted and prolonged situation. Originally intended for one week, the mission has far exceeded its plan. The first manned SpaceX mission was launched in 2020 which marks a significant milestone in history.