Sunita Williams to return on SpaceX vehicle in February 2025
What's the story
NASA has announced that two of its astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, currently aboard the International Space Station, will return to Earth on a SpaceX vehicle in February 2025.
The decision was made due to concerns over the propulsion system of Boeing's Starliner capsule, which transported them to the ISS.
This marks a significant shift in NASA's strategy and poses a challenge for Boeing, which has been grappling with developmental issues and budget overruns exceeding $1.6 billion since 2016.
Extended mission
Astronauts' stay extended due to technical issues
Wilmore and Williams, both experienced military test pilots, were the first crew to travel on Starliner on June 5.
Their mission was initially planned for eight days but has now been extended to nearly 80 days, due to multiple technical glitches with the spacecraft.
The issues include thruster failures and helium leaks within the first 24 hours of its flight, leading to a series of delays.
Return plan
SpaceX Crew Dragon to bring astronauts home
The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft which will carry Wilmore and Williams, is set to launch next month as part of a routine astronaut rotation mission.
Two seats will be reserved for Wilmore and Williams on the Crew Dragon, while the Starliner will undock from the ISS and attempt an uncrewed return to Earth.
Certification hurdles
Boeing's struggles with Starliner and NASA's concerns
Boeing has been working on the development of Starliner, a capsule designed to rival Crew Dragon for US astronaut missions.
However, the spacecraft encountered thruster issues during its 2019 uncrewed launch test and a repeat attempt in 2022.
Despite efforts to investigate and address these problems, results from Earth-based tests and simulations have not alleviated concerns of NASA officials, about Starliner's ability to safely return its crew - a crucial part of the test mission.
Statement
NASA's decision adds to Boeing's challenges
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson confirmed the decision, stating, "NASA has decided that Butch and Suni will return with Crew-9 next February, and that Starliner will return uncrewed."
This development adds to the difficulties faced by Boeing's new CEO Kelly Ortberg, who took over this month with an aim to restore the company's reputation following a series of setbacks.