NASA cuts SpaceX crew for Boeing Starliner astronauts in September launch

NASA has decided to cut two crew members from the upcoming SpaceX Crew-9 mission to accommodate astronauts stranded aboard Boeing's Starliner. The Dragon Capsule is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Station in late September, carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov to the International Space Station (ISS) for a five-month mission. The two astronauts removed from the mission are Zenda Cardman and Stephanie Wilson, with Cardman set for her first spaceflight. The decision comes after Boeing's Starliner experienced docking issues during its crewed flight on June 5, which included thruster problems and helium leaks. As a result, astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore have been unable to return as planned, leading to an extended stay aboard the ISS. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the importance of safety in this decision, highlighting the risks associated with spaceflight and the need for careful planning. In preparation for the Dragon Capsule launch, NASA and SpaceX are working on reconfiguring the spacecraft's seats and developing specific spacesuits for the returning astronauts. Boeing has expressed its commitment to crew safety and has been focused on ensuring the Starliner can operate effectively. The uncrewed Starliner is set to undock from the ISS early next month and will return to Earth, landing in New Mexico. This situation underscores the complexities and challenges of space missions, particularly when multiple companies are involved in crew transport.