Astronauts Stuck in Space to Return in 2025

Two NASA astronauts, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, who have been stranded in space for over two months, will finally return to Earth in February 2025. The decision has been made to extend their stay on the International Space Station (ISS) until then, when they will hitch a ride on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.

The astronauts had originally set off on an eight-day mission on June 5th, but encountered technical issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft, including leaks of helium and malfunctioning thrusters. After months of troubleshooting, NASA and Boeing have decided that the Starliner will return to Earth "un-crewed," while the astronauts will wait it out on the ISS until SpaceX can bring them home.

"Space flight is a risk, even at its safest and even at its most routine, and a test flight, by nature, is neither safe nor routine," said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. "Our core value is safety and it is our north star."

The extended stay will allow the astronauts, who have both completed long-duration missions in the past, to continue their scientific work and maintenance on the space station. It will also give SpaceX time to launch its next Crew Dragon vehicle, which will have two astronauts on board but leave room for Williams and Wilmore to join them for the return to Earth.

Although the delay is a significant setback, both astronauts are said to fully support the plan, understanding the risks involved in their initial test flight. Boeing, meanwhile, remains committed to the safety of its spacecraft and is focused on a successful uncrewed return.