NASA astronauts stranded in space receive no overtime pay

In June 2024, NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore embarked on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) that was initially scheduled to last eight days. However, due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, they were unable to return to Earth as planned, resulting in a prolonged stay at the ISS for nearly nine months. The astronauts faced delays during their return journey, which was eventually facilitated by a SpaceX rocket. They successfully returned to Earth earlier this week, concluding an incredible 286-day mission in space. Despite expectations of receiving overtime pay for their extended time at work, the astronauts were informed that they would not be compensated beyond their standard salaries. NASA's Space Operations Mission Directorate explained that like many federal employees, astronauts do not receive overtime or holiday pay; instead, their compensation consists of a fixed salary and a daily allowance for incidental expenses. While in space, they received a daily per diem of $5, amounting to a total of approximately $1,430 for the duration of their stay. The astronauts are paid an annual salary of $152,258, similar to the pay scale of senior federal employees, and are officially classified as federal employees who go on long-term temporary duty while on missions. This means that while they work in space, their salaries remain consistent, and expenses for their food and lodging are covered by NASA. Both Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have expressed that their extended time in space was enjoyable rather than a hardship. Williams previously referred to the ISS as her 'happy place,' emphasizing her fondness for being in space. This sentiment highlights the unique lifestyle and experiences that astronauts undergo, contrasting ordinary workplace dynamics where employees usually expect additional compensation when their work hours extend beyond normal expectations.