When Will Sunita Williams Get Home? Is Starliner Still A Safe Option? NASA Answers FAQ

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded in space for over 2 months now. The extended stay has raised concerns about their safe return. NASA has answered FAQ to allay fears

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded in space for over two months due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft that carried them to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 6 as part of NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test, the first crewed mission to the orbiting space laboratory aboard the Starliner. Originally intended to last about a week, the mission was extended as engineers encountered unexpected performance problems with the spacecraft. While the astronauts have been working with the Expedition 71 crew during their extended stay, NASA and Boeing are now analysing data and conducting additional tests to ensure a safe return for the crew.

With the two astronauts' stay in space getting longer each day, and many questions being raised about their safety and the efforts being made to ensure their safe return, NASA has shared some answers.

From how long Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will stay in space, to what is the emergency evacuation plan in place, to whether the ISS is adequately stocked to ensure a smooth stay of the additional crew members for a longer duration, NASA has tried to answer several questions. 

1. What Went Wrong With Boeing Starliner?

NASA: During Starliner’s flight to the ISS, engineers noticed some thrusters did not perform as expected, and several leaks were detected in its helium system. These issues have led to extended troubleshooting and additional tests to determine the cause and plan for a safe return.

2. Why Can't Starliner Return?

NASA: The technical issues with the thrusters and helium system have delayed its return. NASA and Boeing are working to understand these problems fully before bringing Starliner back to Earth  to ensure the crew’s safety.

3. Are Sunita Williams And Butch Wilmore Stuck In Space?

NASA: No, they are not "stuck". They are safe aboard the ISS, actively participating in research and monitoring Starliner’s systems. Starliner remains a primary return option, but NASA is considering other possibilities if the spacecraft isn’t cleared.

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4. Will Sunita Williams And Butch Wilmore Have To Stay In Space Until 2025?

NASA: If NASA decides Starliner cannot return with astronauts, Williams and Wilmore could remain aboard the ISS until February 2025. They might return with SpaceX Crew-9 as part of an adjusted mission plan.

5. Is There Enough Food And Other Essentials For All The Astronauts Aboard ISS?

NASA: Yes, the ISS is well-stocked with food, water, and other supplies. Recent resupply missions have brought additional essentials, and more missions are planned through the end of 2024.

6. How Will Sunita Williams And Butch Wilmore Return If There Is An Emergency On ISS?

NASA: In case of an emergency, Starliner remains the primary escape option. However, other contingency plans, like using a SpaceX Dragon, are also in place.

7. For How Long Can An Astronaut Survive In Space?

NASA: Astronauts on the ISS typically stay for about six months, though missions can extend beyond that. NASA has extensive experience in supporting longer-duration space missions, ensuring safety and well-being through resupply missions and continuous monitoring of health factors.