NASA's stuck astronauts reach six months in orbit and there's no end in sight
- Wilmore and Williams reached the ISS in June 2024 for what was intended to be an eight-day mission to test the Starliner spacecraft.
- Due to complications with Starliner, the astronauts have been onboard for six months and are scheduled to return on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft in February 2025.
- Despite being stuck in space, both astronauts maintain a positive attitude, expressing gratitude for their training and experiences.
In June 2024, two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) for a mission expected to last just eight days. However, due to complications related to their spacecraft, the Boeing-made Starliner, the duration of their stay in space has extended significantly, reaching six months. NASA had decided to return the Starliner uncrewed after it experienced a failure with a valve, emphasizing the importance of safety in the mission. As a result, Wilmore and Williams have been reassigned to return aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which is scheduled to arrive in early February 2025, meaning they still have approximately two more months left in orbit. Despite their prolonged stay, both astronauts have maintained a positive mindset about their situation, expressing that they have been training for years and are adapting well to their circumstances. They reported missing their families back on Earth, especially during the holiday season, but have received immense support and praise from NASA for their resilience and professionalism throughout this unexpected journey. They engage in daily exercises to maintain their health and have continued to conduct scientific research while managing the challenges of living in space for an extended period. Even after months of isolation, they have cultivated a peaceful environment onboard and have adapted their daily routines as they await their eventual return to Earth.