Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is back on Earth, albeit without its astronauts. It autonomously undocked from the International Space Station at 6:04 pm EDT on Friday. Its crew - Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore - are at the ISS. The spacecraft landed in the deserts of New Mexico at the White Sands Space Harbor at 12:01 am EDT (9:30 am IST) on Saturday.

"She's on her way home. Congratulations to the undocking team," NASA astronaut Sunita Williams radioed to Mission Control. She and Wilmore launched on the Starliner on June 5 for an eight-day mission. But, several technical issues, including a major problem with the thrusters, have led them to stay in space for longer. The two are now only expected to return in February 2025.&nbsp;

"It is time to bring Calypso home. You guys got this," Williams said further, using the name her crew chose for Starliner before the undocking. "We have your back and you've got this. Bring her back to Earth."

NASA decided to return the Starliner home without its crew due to the problems with the spacecraft, though the capsule's thrusters appeared to work fine during undocking.

Its launch from Earth was also delayed several times. It experienced helium issues before launch and during docking.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/touchdown-boeing-starliner-calypso-lands-in-the-deserts-of-new-mexico-756601">Touchdown! Boeing Starliner 'Calypso' lands in the deserts of New Mexico</a>

After several meetings and tests, NASA deemed it too risky to bring Williams and Wilmore to Earth on Starliner. As per current plans, they will return in February on a SpaceX Dragon capsule.&nbsp;

Starliner fired its thrusters in a series of 12 short manoeuvres to get away from the station as planned.

<h2>NASA contracts Boeing and SpaceX&nbsp;</h2>

SpaceX and Boeing were awarded multibillion-dollar contracts from NASA in 2014 to construct astronaut flights. The latest step was supposed to fill in for the space shuttle for crew-carrying missions after it retired in 2011.

The commercial crewed flights were expected to begin in 2017 at that time. However, following several delays, SpaceX flew the first humans in 2020. For Starliner, the wait was extended for four extra years.

 
Starliner's first uncrewed test flight to the ISS took place in 2019. However, it faced some issues and things didn't go as planned. the Boeing capsule failed to reach the station due to technical glitches.&nbsp;

The second uncrewed test flight in 2022 went better than the last one, and it managed to dock with the ISS docking. However, this time it faced the infamous thruster issues.

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is back on Earth, albeit without its astronauts. It autonomously undocked from the International Space Station at 6:04 pm EDT on Friday.

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is back on Earth, albeit without its astronauts. It autonomously undocked from the International Space Station at 6:04 pm EDT on Friday. Its crew - Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore - are at the ISS. The spacecraft landed in the deserts of New Mexico at the White Sands Space Harbor at 12:01 am EDT (9:30 am IST) on Saturday. "She's on her way home. Congratulations to the undocking team," NASA astronaut Sunita Williams radioed to Mission Control. She and Wilmore launched on the Starliner on June 5 for an eight-day mission. But, several technical issues, including a major problem with the thrusters, have led them to stay in space for longer. The two are now only expected to return in February 2025. "It is time to bring Calypso home. You guys got this," Williams said further, using the name her crew chose for Starliner before the undocking. "We have your back and you've got this. Bring her back to Earth." NASA decided to return the Starliner home without its crew due to the problems with the spacecraft, though the capsule's thrusters appeared to work fine during undocking. Its launch from Earth was also delayed several times. It experienced helium issues before launch and during docking. Also Read: Touchdown! Boeing Starliner 'Calypso' lands in the deserts of New Mexico After several meetings and tests, NASA deemed it too risky to bring Williams and Wilmore to Earth on Starliner. As per current plans, they will return in February on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. Starliner fired its thrusters in a series of 12 short manoeuvres to get away from the station as planned. NASA contracts Boeing and SpaceX SpaceX and Boeing were awarded multibillion-dollar contracts from NASA in 2014 to construct astronaut flights. The latest step was supposed to fill in for the space shuttle for crew-carrying missions after it retired in 2011. The commercial crewed flights were expected to begin in 2017 at that time. However, following several delays, SpaceX flew the first humans in 2020. For Starliner, the wait was extended for four extra years. Starliner's first uncrewed test flight to the ISS took place in 2019. However, it faced some issues and things didn't go as planned. the Boeing capsule failed to reach the station due to technical glitches. The second uncrewed test flight in 2022 went better than the last one, and it managed to dock with the ISS docking. However, this time it faced the infamous thruster issues.

What Sunita Williams said as Starliner began its return journey to Earth. 'Bring her back...'

NASA admitted there was “tension” during meetings with Boeing executives about how to bring home two astronauts stranded on the International Space Station, but denied reports of shouting matches.

NASA-Boeing tensions: Boeing Starliner to return sans astronaut

NASA’s manager for the Commercial Crew program, Steve Stich was up-front about Boeing's and US space agency's differences in opinions about the rescue plan for Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams. After several discussions, the aerospace company and the government body concluded that it was not safe for the astronauts to be aboard the faulty starliner during its journey to Earth.&nbsp;

The Boeing spacecraft is set to embark on the interstellar ride back to Earth without the crew on 5 September and is expected to reach Earth on 7 September. Meanwhile, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were asked to wait at the International Space Station For the SpaceX Crew-9 mission to rescue them in February 2025. The original mission was completely discarded because of the Starliner's defective state due to helium leaks and thruster malfunctions. The astronaut duo was supposed to complete their to-and-fro journey from ISS to Earth on Starliner, but the safety of the astronauts is being prioritised, and the situation is currently not in Boeing’s favour.&nbsp;

Also Read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-high-school-shooting-14-year-old-shooter-had-been-on-fbis-radar-for-over-a-year-755964">Georgia shooting: 14-year-old shooter was on FBI's radar for over a year</a>|

NASA’s Steve Stich on Wednesday confirmed in a teleconference that the discussion leading up to the final decision in favour of SpaceX for the rescue mission led to &nbsp;“some tension in the room.” He said, “I would say, anytime you’re in a meeting of this magnitude, where there's this kind of decision, there is some tension in the room.”&nbsp;

Stitch also highlighted that Boeing believed in the model created by them that tried to predict thruster degradation for the rest of the flight. The final decision was based on the ability of the starliner thrusters to bring the astronauts back. Dana Weigel, the ISS program manager of NASA, agreed that Boeing reassured the agency of their belief in the spacecraft. However, she also mentioned that the MNC was not in the same position as them.&nbsp;

<h2>NASA made the final decision</h2>

Weigel said, "Boeing is not in a position, and it would be unfair of them to ask, to weigh into a risk versus risk trade for this scenario that NASA was weighing, which was bringing them home in the Starliner crewed or coming up with an alternate plan,” and ultimately the ball was in NASA’s court.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

NASA’s manager for the Commercial Crew program, Steve Stich was up-front about Boeing's and US space agency's differences in opinions about the rescue plan for Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams.

NASA’s manager for the Commercial Crew program, Steve Stich was up-front about Boeing's and US space agency's differences in opinions about the rescue plan for Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams. After several discussions, the aerospace company and the government body concluded that it was not safe for the astronauts to be aboard the faulty starliner during its journey to Earth. The Boeing spacecraft is set to embark on the interstellar ride back to Earth without the crew on 5 September and is expected to reach Earth on 7 September. Meanwhile, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore were asked to wait at the International Space Station For the SpaceX Crew-9 mission to rescue them in February 2025. The original mission was completely discarded because of the Starliner's defective state due to helium leaks and thruster malfunctions. The astronaut duo was supposed to complete their to-and-fro journey from ISS to Earth on Starliner, but the safety of the astronauts is being prioritised, and the situation is currently not in Boeing’s favour. Also Read|Georgia shooting: 14-year-old shooter was on FBI's radar for over a year| NASA’s Steve Stich on Wednesday confirmed in a teleconference that the discussion leading up to the final decision in favour of SpaceX for the rescue mission led to “some tension in the room.” He said, “I would say, anytime you’re in a meeting of this magnitude, where there's this kind of decision, there is some tension in the room.” Stitch also highlighted that Boeing believed in the model created by them that tried to predict thruster degradation for the rest of the flight. The final decision was based on the ability of the starliner thrusters to bring the astronauts back. Dana Weigel, the ISS program manager of NASA, agreed that Boeing reassured the agency of their belief in the spacecraft. However, she also mentioned that the MNC was not in the same position as them. NASA made the final decision Weigel said, "Boeing is not in a position, and it would be unfair of them to ask, to weigh into a risk versus risk trade for this scenario that NASA was weighing, which was bringing them home in the Starliner crewed or coming up with an alternate plan,” and ultimately the ball was in NASA’s court. (with inputs from agencies)

Steve Stich admits “tensions in room” over Sunita William’s rescue plan

NASA admits 'tension' during meetings with Boeing executives

The strange sounds coming from Starliner are not so strange after all. NASA has revealed what caused the noise which astronaut Butch Wilmore first reported about on Saturday. The space agency said on Monday that it had been identified as feedback from a speaker inside the spacecraft.&nbsp;

"The feedback from the speaker was the result of an audio configuration between the space station and Starliner," NASA said.

It added that the "pulsing" sound had stopped.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Wilmore contacted NASA and&nbsp;informed them about the noise. "I've got a question about Starliner," Wilmore radioed Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston. "There's a strange noise coming through the speaker ... I don't know what's making it."

NASA said that with multiple spacecraft being connected to each other, feedback is common. It added that the strange sounds do not impact the ISS or the astronauts in any way.

"The space station audio system is complex, allowing multiple spacecraft and modules to be interconnected, and it is common to experience noise and feedback," it said.&nbsp;

The Starliner is set to undertake a lonely journey back home on September 6 and the issue is not going to affect its schedule.

"The speaker feedback Wilmore reported has no technical impact to the crew, Starliner, or station operations, including Starliner’s uncrewed undocking from the station no earlier than Friday, Sept. 6," NASA added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/stuck-in-space-astronaut-reports-strange-noises-from-starliner-that-took-sunita-williams-to-space-watch-755174">Astronaut reports 'strange noises' from Starliner that took Sunita Williams to space</a>

The pulsating sound added to the month-long problems surrounding Starliner as it prepares to undock from the ISS and return to Earth on autopilot, making a landing in the New Mexico desert.&nbsp;

<h2>Starliner sound audio&nbsp;</h2>

The audio of the conversation between Wilmore and the ground station caused panic among the public. Wilmore informed Mission Control that he was not sure if an oddity in the connection between the station and the spacecraft was causing the noise, or something else. He asked them to listen in. Moments later, they were linked via "hardline" to listen to audio inside Starliner.

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&nbsp;

Wilmore then put his microphone up to the speaker inside Starliner. An audible pinging followed which Mission Control also heard. "Alright Butch, that one came through. It was kind of like a pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping."

"I'll do it one more time, and I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on," Wilmore replied. The sound then repeated itself.

Notably, the audio was recorded and shared by a Michigan-based meteorologist named Rob Dale. 
&nbsp; 
Sunita Williams and Wilmore went to the ISS aboard Starliner on June 5 for an eight-day trip. However, problems with the Starliner meant they could not come back until it was fixed. Now NASA has pushed back their return date to some time in February next year aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule.&nbsp;

The strange sounds coming from Starliner are not so strange after all. NASA has revealed what caused the noise which astronaut Butch Wilmore first reported about on Saturday.

The strange sounds coming from Starliner are not so strange after all. NASA has revealed what caused the noise which astronaut Butch Wilmore first reported about on Saturday. The space agency said on Monday that it had been identified as feedback from a speaker inside the spacecraft. "The feedback from the speaker was the result of an audio configuration between the space station and Starliner," NASA said. It added that the "pulsing" sound had stopped. On Saturday, Wilmore contacted NASA and informed them about the noise. "I've got a question about Starliner," Wilmore radioed Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston. "There's a strange noise coming through the speaker ... I don't know what's making it." NASA said that with multiple spacecraft being connected to each other, feedback is common. It added that the strange sounds do not impact the ISS or the astronauts in any way. "The space station audio system is complex, allowing multiple spacecraft and modules to be interconnected, and it is common to experience noise and feedback," it said. The Starliner is set to undertake a lonely journey back home on September 6 and the issue is not going to affect its schedule. "The speaker feedback Wilmore reported has no technical impact to the crew, Starliner, or station operations, including Starliner’s uncrewed undocking from the station no earlier than Friday, Sept. 6," NASA added. Also Read: Astronaut reports 'strange noises' from Starliner that took Sunita Williams to space The pulsating sound added to the month-long problems surrounding Starliner as it prepares to undock from the ISS and return to Earth on autopilot, making a landing in the New Mexico desert. Starliner sound audio The audio of the conversation between Wilmore and the ground station caused panic among the public. Wilmore informed Mission Control that he was not sure if an oddity in the connection between the station and the spacecraft was causing the noise, or something else. He asked them to listen in. Moments later, they were linked via "hardline" to listen to audio inside Starliner. × Wilmore then put his microphone up to the speaker inside Starliner. An audible pinging followed which Mission Control also heard. "Alright Butch, that one came through. It was kind of like a pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping." "I'll do it one more time, and I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on," Wilmore replied. The sound then repeated itself. Notably, the audio was recorded and shared by a Michigan-based meteorologist named Rob Dale. Sunita Williams and Wilmore went to the ISS aboard Starliner on June 5 for an eight-day trip. However, problems with the Starliner meant they could not come back until it was fixed. Now NASA has pushed back their return date to some time in February next year aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule.

'Strange noises' coming from Starliner are quite common, says NASA

A NASA astronaut at the International Space Station (ISS) reported hearing a "strange noise" coming from the Boeing Starliner spacecraft just days before it is set to leave the station and return to Earth on autopilot.

NASA astronaut stuck in space reports ‘strange noises’ coming from Starliner capsule

The problematic Boeing Starliner craft, supposed to return to Earth this weekend, has started emitting 'strange noises' while in space. This supposed anomaly was observed and notified by veteran NASA Astronaut and Starliner crew member Butch Wilmore, who flew on the craft along with Sunita Williams.

The problematic Boeing Starliner craft, supposed to return to Earth this weekend, has started emitting 'strange noises' while in space. This supposed anomaly was observed and notified by veteran NASA Astronaut and Starliner crew member Butch Wilmore, who flew on the craft along with Sunita Williams. Starliner, Boeing's under-development astronaut ferry, has been plagued with multiple issues. Owing to the risks involved, this very craft which ferried Williams and Wilmore, would be returning to earth on auto-pilot, without the duo. The American astronaut duo are to return on a SpaceX Crew Dragon Craft, sometime in February 2025, thereby extending their eight-day mission to eight months. Is #Boeing #Starliner haunted? Or is someone banging its door with a metal plate & trying to enter? What's this weird noise that #NASA astronaut #ButchWilmore has been hearing from Starliner's speaker? Electronic/RF Interference? Listen carefully...☠️👇#space #science #tech pic.twitter.com/JQGBenWZOc — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) September 1, 2024 × This noise, which emanated from Starliner's speakers has given rise to wild speculations and technical debates on the likely causes. From alien theories to ghost stories, sarcastic comments at Boeing, a few technical explanations, and a whole lot of theories are doing the rounds on social media. What's the Starliner 'noise' all about? Over the last three months, there's been a lot of trouble with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft and it's been creating a buzz on the news and social media. However, what's cropped up now is literally 'noise'. This weekend, from aboard the Starliner that's docked to the International Space Station, Butch Wilmore radioed the Mission Control at NASA"s Johnson Space Center, Houston: "I've got a question about Starliner. There's a strange noise coming through the speaker. I don't know what's making it." Wilmore, while aboard the Starliner, is known to have made three attempts to relay the 'strange audio' to his ground controllers. The pinging noise was clearly captured on two of those attempts and the ground teams were heard acknowledging the same over the radio. A short audio clip of this conversation between Wilmore and Mission Control was made available online by Rob Dale, a Michigan-based meteorologist. "Alright Butch, that one came through..." Mission control can be heard telling Wilmore. "It was kind of like a pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping," they added. Some social media users pointed out that the sound resembled that of banging against a metallic surface. Also read | Stuck in space: Astronaut reports 'strange noises' from Starliner that took Sunita Williams to space Are such 'strange noises' unprecedented ? More than two decades ago, during China's maiden astronaut mission, lone Taikonaut Yang Liwei heard strange sounds while in his spacecraft. "Knocking an iron bucket with a wooden hammer," that's how he had described his experience from the year 2003. It was later learnt that the sound comes from tiny deformations in the space capsule's inner wall materials due to changes in pressure. "A change of capsule temperature would cause a change in air pressure, and the difference in pressure between the inner and outer walls of the capsule caused tiny deformations of the wall materials, producing the sound Dong! Dong! Dong!," it was revealed by Chinese researchers and spacecraft designers. How dangerous and worrisome are these noises? Unlike the Chinese mission, the Starliner's 'strange noise' phenomenon is known to be emanating from the speakers, and not the spacecraft's body. Therefore, on the face of it, it appears not so worrisome. However, given the poor track record of Starliner and the saga that has been dragging on, anything is possible! "There are several noises I'd prefer not to hear inside my spaceship, including this one that @Boeing Starliner is now making," veteran Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield said in a social media post. This further adds to the reputational damage that Boeing has been suffering - for its vehicles that ply on earth and outside of earth. Radio Frequency Interference or Audio Feedback Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is a type of electromagnetic interference (EMI) that occurs when unwanted radio frequency signals disrupt the normal operation of electronic devices. This interference can be caused by various sources, both natural and human-made. Mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, microwave ovens, Wi-fi routers, and a plethora of other devices can cause some kind of RFI. At the 400 km height at which the Space Station and the Starliner orbits, there are several satellites above and below, and there are multiple ground-based antennae sending signals to space. Radio frequency interference is among the likely scenarios when considering that the 'strange audio' has emanated from a speaker. Audio feedback, often heard as a high-pitched screeching sound, occurs when a microphone picks up sound from a speaker and re-amplifies it, creating a continuous and disturbing loop. This could be caused when a microphone is placed too close to a speaker when there are reflective surfaces that bounce sound back into the mic, or even when the mic and speaker are at high volume.

Explained: How dangerous is the 'strange noise' from Starliner?

Sunita "Suni" Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore have already been stuck on the International Space Station for three months, and now there are reports of a "strange noise" coming from inside the Starliner spacecraft that carried the two astronauts to space.

On Saturday (Aug 31), astronaut Butch Wilmore radioed the Mission Control at Johnson Space Center about the strange noises he heard.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:131,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1817}">Eerie noises in space</h2>

"I've got a question about Starliner," said Wilmore as he radioed the Mission Control.

"There's a strange noise coming through the speaker … I don't know what's making it," added the former military test pilot.

He said that he was not sure if it was some oddity in the connection between the spacecraft and the mission control station or something else that was causing the noise.&nbsp;

Wilmore then asks the flight controllers in Houston to listen to the audio, following which the mission control radios back via the "hardline" to listen to the strange noises.

"It was kind of like a pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping," acknowledges mission control in the audio widely being shared on social media platforms including X.

Listen to it here:

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BREAKING🚨: Boeing Starliner Spacecraft emitting strange "sonar like noises" is being reported by Astronauts aboard ISS 
 
Listen to the real audio here: <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:394,&quot;y&quot;:524,&quot;w&quot;:165,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:427,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2210}" href="https://t.co/zVfTW4B5EK">pic.twitter.com/zVfTW4B5EK</a>
— Curiosity (@MAstronomers) <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:428,&quot;y&quot;:553,&quot;w&quot;:110,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:461,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2239}" href="https://twitter.com/MAstronomers/status/1830426229805134046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"I'll do it one more time, and I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on, here we go" replies the astronaut.&nbsp;

As the odd, sonar-like audio repeats itself, Butch concludes the call with "Alright, over to you. Call us if you figure it out."

Mission control then confirms if the sound is only "emanating from the speaker" and if there are any other "weird noises" coming from inside the spacecraft.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjBkqDZ1aOIAxW3oWMGHTfuMhkQxfQBKAB6BAgWEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-origin-astronaut-sunita-williams-dances-sprightly-on-arriving-at-intl-space-station-729741" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-origin-astronaut-sunita-williams-dances-sprightly-on-arriving-at-intl-space-station-729741&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjBkqDZ1aOIAxW3oWMGHTfuMhkQxfQBKAB6BAgWEAE">Watch: Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams dances sprightly on arriving at Int’l Space Station</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:772,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2458}">What is causing the strange noise?</h2>

It is not yet clear what is behind the strange and eerie noise. The recording of the conversation between Butch Wilmore&nbsp;and mission control was captured and shared by a Michigan-based meteorologist named Rob Dale.

The Starliner, after years of delays, had finally lifted off on June 5. A day later, as it was approaching the space station, "NASA and Boeing identified helium leaks and experienced issues with the spacecraft reaction control thrusters," due to which the astronauts' return was put on indefinite hold. The Starliner has now been docked on the ISS for three months.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sunita "Suni" Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore have already been stuck on the International Space Station for three months, and now there are reports of a "strange noise" coming from inside the Starliner spacecraft that carried the two astronauts to space.

Sunita "Suni" Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore have already been stuck on the International Space Station for three months, and now there are reports of a "strange noise" coming from inside the Starliner spacecraft that carried the two astronauts to space. On Saturday (Aug 31), astronaut Butch Wilmore radioed the Mission Control at Johnson Space Center about the strange noises he heard. Eerie noises in space "I've got a question about Starliner," said Wilmore as he radioed the Mission Control. "There's a strange noise coming through the speaker … I don't know what's making it," added the former military test pilot. He said that he was not sure if it was some oddity in the connection between the spacecraft and the mission control station or something else that was causing the noise. Wilmore then asks the flight controllers in Houston to listen to the audio, following which the mission control radios back via the "hardline" to listen to the strange noises. "It was kind of like a pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping," acknowledges mission control in the audio widely being shared on social media platforms including X. Listen to it here: BREAKING🚨: Boeing Starliner Spacecraft emitting strange "sonar like noises" is being reported by Astronauts aboard ISS Listen to the real audio here: pic.twitter.com/zVfTW4B5EK — Curiosity (@MAstronomers) September 2, 2024 × "I'll do it one more time, and I'll let y'all scratch your heads and see if you can figure out what's going on, here we go" replies the astronaut. As the odd, sonar-like audio repeats itself, Butch concludes the call with "Alright, over to you. Call us if you figure it out." Mission control then confirms if the sound is only "emanating from the speaker" and if there are any other "weird noises" coming from inside the spacecraft. Also read | Watch: Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams dances sprightly on arriving at Int’l Space Station What is causing the strange noise? It is not yet clear what is behind the strange and eerie noise. The recording of the conversation between Butch Wilmore and mission control was captured and shared by a Michigan-based meteorologist named Rob Dale. The Starliner, after years of delays, had finally lifted off on June 5. A day later, as it was approaching the space station, "NASA and Boeing identified helium leaks and experienced issues with the spacecraft reaction control thrusters," due to which the astronauts' return was put on indefinite hold. The Starliner has now been docked on the ISS for three months. (With inputs from agencies)

Stuck in space: Astronaut reports 'strange noises' from Starliner that took Sunita Williams to space. Watch!

#WeGravitas | We are quite familiar about how the Boeing Starliner's 8 day space mission has gone on, but there is some progress, Starliner is returning next week but there's a catch here it will return empty. What about the crew and why is it returning empty? WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more!

Boeing Starliner to return empty: What happens to Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore?

There's a lot of wild descriptions claiming that&nbsp; American astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are "stuck, marooned, stranded" in space, as their 8-day stay gets extended to 8-months.

Speaking to WION, Russian Cosmonaut Sergei Vladimirovich Korsakov shared how he'd have loved to have his six-month space mission extended to one year.

While ordinary earthlings have intense and overhyped debates over the extended Boeing Starliner mission and the fate of its two astronauts, Cosmonaut Korsakov shared his unique insights on how astronauts are a special breed that love to remain in space for longer.&nbsp;

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Korsakov, a Russian Cosmonaut, who spent longer than six months continuously on the International Space Station, spoke to WION on the sidelines of an event organised by Space Kidz India, an organisation for promoting enthusiasm for space exploration and nurturing young minds in the fields of science and technology.

Korsakov and Kazakh cosmonaut Aiden Aimbetkov were at the Young Scientist India, National Innovation Challenge 2024, organised by Space Kidz India, where they recounted their rigorous training, challenging missions and experience in space.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Korsakov said that he had to study and train for 10 years on various theoretical and practical subjects to be able to undertake his spaceflight mission on Russia's Soyuz MS-21, which launched in March 2022.

On his duties aboard the orbiting lab, he said it would involve completing multiple science and engineering tasks, among&nbsp;other specific roles. In his case, he was tasked with operationalising the European Robotic Arm, the first robotic arm to be attached to the Russian segment of the International Space Station.&nbsp;

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I spoke to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russian</a> Cosmonaut Sergei Vladimirovich Korsakov, who spent 6months+ aboard the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> 
 
Mere mortals like us are worrying, debating about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Boeing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Boeing</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Starliner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Starliner</a> and return of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SunitaWilliams?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SunitaWilliams</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ButchWilmore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ButchWilmore</a>.. In reality, astronauts love a prolonged stay in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/space?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#space</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZgZoyIeJL">pic.twitter.com/gZgZoyIeJL</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1827323974189207579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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While Korsakov's mission lasted a little longer than six months, looking back, he wishes he could've stayed for a year. When asked about the delayed mission of Williams and Wilmore, he said that even the American duo had expressed happiness that they got to spend longer in space.&nbsp;

While staying aboard the orbiting lab comes with the perks of witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets in a span of 24 hours, floating around in microgravity, enjoying the views of Earth, witnessing the Northern Lights and Southern Lights, etc., staying in space for long durations can have serious and adverse impacts on one's health and well-being.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeings-billion-dollar-losses-deepen-as-nasa-chooses-spacex-to-bring-back-astronauts-from-iss-753208">Boeing’s billion-dollar losses deepen as NASA chooses SpaceX to bring back astronauts from ISS</a>

"Prolonged space stay can weaken muscles, including heart muscles, reduce bone density, and have much more long-term effects. To stay fit and healthy, all of us aboard the ISS workout more than two hours every day,&nbsp;cardio and weight training," he added. He also stated that getting acclimatised to life on earth would be tougher and would take longer, as space stay&nbsp;gets longer.

"It is my dream to go back to the Space Station. As a cosmonaut, I would like to explore- Moon, Mars, other planets,"&nbsp;he concluded&nbsp;in true cosmonaut spirit.&nbsp;

There's a lot of wild descriptions claiming that American astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are "stuck, marooned, stranded" in space, as their 8-day stay gets extended to 8-months.

There's a lot of wild descriptions claiming that American astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are "stuck, marooned, stranded" in space, as their 8-day stay gets extended to 8-months. Speaking to WION, Russian Cosmonaut Sergei Vladimirovich Korsakov shared how he'd have loved to have his six-month space mission extended to one year. While ordinary earthlings have intense and overhyped debates over the extended Boeing Starliner mission and the fate of its two astronauts, Cosmonaut Korsakov shared his unique insights on how astronauts are a special breed that love to remain in space for longer. × Korsakov, a Russian Cosmonaut, who spent longer than six months continuously on the International Space Station, spoke to WION on the sidelines of an event organised by Space Kidz India, an organisation for promoting enthusiasm for space exploration and nurturing young minds in the fields of science and technology. Korsakov and Kazakh cosmonaut Aiden Aimbetkov were at the Young Scientist India, National Innovation Challenge 2024, organised by Space Kidz India, where they recounted their rigorous training, challenging missions and experience in space. Speaking to WION, Korsakov said that he had to study and train for 10 years on various theoretical and practical subjects to be able to undertake his spaceflight mission on Russia's Soyuz MS-21, which launched in March 2022. On his duties aboard the orbiting lab, he said it would involve completing multiple science and engineering tasks, among other specific roles. In his case, he was tasked with operationalising the European Robotic Arm, the first robotic arm to be attached to the Russian segment of the International Space Station. I spoke to #Russian Cosmonaut Sergei Vladimirovich Korsakov, who spent 6months+ aboard the @Space_Station Mere mortals like us are worrying, debating about #Boeing #Starliner and return of #SunitaWilliams & #ButchWilmore.. In reality, astronauts love a prolonged stay in #space pic.twitter.com/gZgZoyIeJL — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) August 24, 2024 × While Korsakov's mission lasted a little longer than six months, looking back, he wishes he could've stayed for a year. When asked about the delayed mission of Williams and Wilmore, he said that even the American duo had expressed happiness that they got to spend longer in space. While staying aboard the orbiting lab comes with the perks of witnessing 16 sunrises and sunsets in a span of 24 hours, floating around in microgravity, enjoying the views of Earth, witnessing the Northern Lights and Southern Lights, etc., staying in space for long durations can have serious and adverse impacts on one's health and well-being. Also read: Boeing’s billion-dollar losses deepen as NASA chooses SpaceX to bring back astronauts from ISS "Prolonged space stay can weaken muscles, including heart muscles, reduce bone density, and have much more long-term effects. To stay fit and healthy, all of us aboard the ISS workout more than two hours every day, cardio and weight training," he added. He also stated that getting acclimatised to life on earth would be tougher and would take longer, as space stay gets longer. "It is my dream to go back to the Space Station. As a cosmonaut, I would like to explore- Moon, Mars, other planets," he concluded in true cosmonaut spirit.

'I'd love it if my space trip were to be extended': Cosmonaut Korsakov to WION

NASA announced on Saturday that Boeing's Starliner capsule will return empty from the International Space Station (ISS) due to ongoing issues with its propulsion system.

NASA announced on Saturday that Boeing's Starliner capsule will return empty from the International Space Station (ISS) due to ongoing issues with its propulsion system. This latest setback adds to Boeing's challenges, with CNBC reporting that the company's losses in the Starliner programme have now exceeded $1 billion. How will Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams come back? Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who were originally supposed to return on the Starliner, will now come back to Earth aboard SpaceX's Crew-9 vehicle in February 2025, after extending their stay on the ISS by six months. Why did NASA choose SpaceX for the return mission? A "technical disagreement" between NASA and Boeing led to this decision, with NASA choosing to prioritise safety and opting for SpaceX to handle the crew's return. Ken Bowersox, NASA associate administrator, mentioned that NASA officials unanimously agreed to select SpaceX for bringing the crew back home. SpaceX will now carry two astronauts on its Crew-9 vehicle instead of the originally planned four, to accommodate Wilmore and Williams. Also read: Watch: Musk's AI now makes him and Trump armed robbers in new deepfake videos "Boeing has worked very hard with NASA to get the necessary data to make this decision," NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said on Saturday. "We want to further understand the root causes and understand the design improvements so that the Boeing Starliner will serve as an important part of our assured crew access to the ISS." Following the decision, NASA will carry out an additional phase of its Flight Readiness Review to determine the best time to bring the empty Starliner capsule back to Earth. NASA's disagreement with Boeing regarding safety measures Despite Boeing's assurances that the Starliner was safe for emergency crew return, NASA disagreed. Nelson expressed his support for Boeing, saying he was "100% certain" that Starliner would eventually launch with a crew again. In a statement on X, Boeing said, "We continue to focus, first and foremost, on the safety of the crew and spacecraft. We are executing the mission as determined by NASA, and we are preparing the spacecraft for a safe and successful uncrewed return. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing’s billion-dollar losses deepen as NASA chooses SpaceX to bring back astronauts from ISS

Two NASA astronauts, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX. They were originally on an eight-day mission but will now spend around eight months in orbit due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.

NASA says astronauts stuck in orbit to return in Feb 2025 with SpaceX crew

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore – astronauts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – have been stuck in space for more than two months now.

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore – astronauts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) – have been stuck in space for more than two months now. Wilmore and Williams blasted off for the International Space Station (ISS) on Boeing's Starliner on June 5. They were meant to stay on the ISS for eight days. However, their return has been delayed by thruster malfunctions that came to light during the first crewed mission to the ISS by a Boeing spacecraft. There are widespread concerns about when will the two astronauts return and how safe will their entry back home be. Addressing a press conference last week, NASA officials said that they were still analysing thruster data, but a decision on whether to use Starliner or SpaceX was looming. Rudy Ridolfi, former Space System Commander in the US military, explained three frightening scenarios that could play out if they choose to go ahead with Starliner for the astronauts' journey back to Earth. The scenarios by Ridolfi Speaking to The Daily Mail earlier this month Ridolfi said that if Williams and Wilmore were to return back home in the Starliner, they could vapourise upon re-entry of Earth's orbit or be stuck floating in space. Five thrusters failed during the 24-hour journey that took the two astronauts to the ISS back in June. One of the main concerns is that more thrusters could fail on the return leg, leaving them floating in limbo, somewhere between the ISS and Earth. The Daily Mail report on August 8 said that based on the amount of oxygen and power capabilities that Starliner has, the crew would have about 96 hours to revive thrusters and land back on Earth. The crew would need to determine which thrusters have malfunctioned with the hopes of sealing them and still have enough resources to spend a few hours travelling home. It could be possible that the craft does make it to Earth even in this scenario, Ridolfi told the publication. A rescue craft to Starliner ship The report also pointed out that in a worst-case scenario, NASA could be forced to send a rescue craft to the Starliner ship to retrieve Williams and Wilmore. Such a rescue has only been performed once and that too to rescue an unmanned spacecraft. "NASA knows how to do this, but it just takes time. If Starliner bounces off the atmosphere they have to locate it. You can get a general guess of where it is, but you have to start taking radar, and optical observations and calculate the orbit that it's now in." This rescue mission can be accomplished by attaching a tunnel-like structure that would latch onto Starliner's hatch, allowing it to open without harming the astronauts. In this situation, Ridolfi said that once Starliner is located, NASA would have to train another team of astronauts to perform the docking mission. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore face 96-hour oxygen limit on Starliner: Expert warns of space standoff

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been stuck in space for weeks now. The space agency has been working to get them back to Earth safely. The&nbsp;Starliner has been experiencing technical issues ever since it took the two to low-Earth orbit in June.&nbsp;

Now another problem has emerged, this time with their spacesuits. In case a problem happens on the International Space Station (ISS) sometime in the next six weeks, Williams and Wilmore won't have the safety of their in-flight spacesuits while fleeing.&nbsp;

NASA said at a press conference on August 14, that the spacesuits they wore inside the Boeing Starliner are not compatible with other spacecraft. The space agency has been trying to decide whether the astronauts should take the return trip aboard Starliner or on a SpaceX vehicle.&nbsp;

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other officials are expected to meet Saturday morning and reach a decision. Reports suggest that the Starliner is likely to be brought back to Earth empty.

If Starliner is removed from the plan because of technical issues, then NASA will need to move ahead with their contingency plan - the SpaceX Dragon capsule&nbsp;of the Crew-8 mission. The spacecraft is in space and officials have said that it is part of the plan if Starliner is deemed unsuitable to carry the astronauts back.&nbsp;

However, the problem arises with the SpaceX suits - there aren't any spare.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-delays-spacex-crew-9-mission-as-rumours-about-boeing-starliners-safety-emerge-747925">NASA delays SpaceX Crew-9 mission as rumours about Boeing Starliner's safety emerge</a>

The earliest they are likely to reach the ISS is on September 24 when the Dragon of Crew-9 launches with two empty seats and two extra spacesuits.

<h2>Starliner's return to Earth</h2>

Starliner is also expected to fly to Earth uncrewed. So between this time period, if Starliner leaves the ISS and Dragon hasn't yet reached space, Williams and Wilmore would need to enter Dragon 8 capsule without the compatible spacesuits in case of an emergency.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The scenario completely depends on NASA's final decision - whether to bring back the Starliner uncrewed, or with the astronauts. A decision is likely to be reached by the end of this month.&nbsp;

Spacesuits are of two types - extravehicular and intravehicular. The former is used while making repairs outside the station, while the latter is worn during launches, aborting a flight or landing back to Earth.&nbsp;

Starliner launched into space on June 5 and the astronauts were supposed to stay at the ISS only for eight days.&nbsp;

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been stuck in space for weeks now. The space agency has been working to get them back to Earth safely. The Starliner has been experiencing technical issues ever since it took the two to low-Earth orbit in June.

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been stuck in space for weeks now. The space agency has been working to get them back to Earth safely. The Starliner has been experiencing technical issues ever since it took the two to low-Earth orbit in June. Now another problem has emerged, this time with their spacesuits. In case a problem happens on the International Space Station (ISS) sometime in the next six weeks, Williams and Wilmore won't have the safety of their in-flight spacesuits while fleeing. NASA said at a press conference on August 14, that the spacesuits they wore inside the Boeing Starliner are not compatible with other spacecraft. The space agency has been trying to decide whether the astronauts should take the return trip aboard Starliner or on a SpaceX vehicle. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other officials are expected to meet Saturday morning and reach a decision. Reports suggest that the Starliner is likely to be brought back to Earth empty. If Starliner is removed from the plan because of technical issues, then NASA will need to move ahead with their contingency plan - the SpaceX Dragon capsule of the Crew-8 mission. The spacecraft is in space and officials have said that it is part of the plan if Starliner is deemed unsuitable to carry the astronauts back. However, the problem arises with the SpaceX suits - there aren't any spare. Also Read: NASA delays SpaceX Crew-9 mission as rumours about Boeing Starliner's safety emerge The earliest they are likely to reach the ISS is on September 24 when the Dragon of Crew-9 launches with two empty seats and two extra spacesuits. Starliner's return to Earth Starliner is also expected to fly to Earth uncrewed. So between this time period, if Starliner leaves the ISS and Dragon hasn't yet reached space, Williams and Wilmore would need to enter Dragon 8 capsule without the compatible spacesuits in case of an emergency. × The scenario completely depends on NASA's final decision - whether to bring back the Starliner uncrewed, or with the astronauts. A decision is likely to be reached by the end of this month. Spacesuits are of two types - extravehicular and intravehicular. The former is used while making repairs outside the station, while the latter is worn during launches, aborting a flight or landing back to Earth. Starliner launched into space on June 5 and the astronauts were supposed to stay at the ISS only for eight days.

Spacesuit problem poses risk if Starliner returns to Earth without the crew

NASA will provide an update Saturday on whether Boeing Co.’s Starliner spacecraft will be used to bring astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams back from their extended stay on the International Space Station.

NASA to give update on Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore's return

NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams are currently stuck aboard the International Space Station (ISS). They went to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, in its first test with astronauts. They were supposed to stay for around eight days, but due to technical glitches in the spacecraft, their return to Earth has been delayed.&nbsp;

The human body cannot withstand the harsh environment of space. Due to the absence of gravity, the bodily fluids shift upwards, which can cause fluid overload or dehydration. Under these conditions, kidneys cannot function efficiently which can lead to chronic kidney diseases.&nbsp;

The most concerning effect of a long-term stay in space is the redistribution of fluids towards the head, increasing intracranial pressure. Due to this pressure, an astronaut can have vision problems, cognitive impairments, and headaches.

The absence of gravity can also lead to muscle or bone loss, further weakening the bones which puts the person&nbsp;at an increased risk of getting fractures in the future.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shopping-malls-in-indias-ncr-region-receive-bomb-threats-750906">Shopping malls in India's Gurugram, Noida receive bomb threats</a>

In the microgravity environment, the heart does not need to work hard to pump blood, which can adversely affect a person's cardiovascular fitness and cause structural changes in the heart.&nbsp;

In space, astronauts are exposed to high levels of radiation as compared to what they experience on Earth. This exposure has some serious risks including the increased probability of developing cancer and long-term threats to brain health. &nbsp;

The lack of gravity in space affects the overall digestion and immune system of the human body. The astronauts are more prone to catching infections, and their gut health is compromised leading to digestive problems.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mpox-crisis-updates-pakistan-adopts-safety-measures-who-says-no-need-to-close-borders-750836">Mpox crisis: Pak adopts safety measures; WHO says no need to close borders</a>

Extended space missions can also affect the mental health of astronauts&nbsp;and can lead to serious conditions including&nbsp;PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore might be going through some of these health conditions in space during their extended stay on the ISS. Meanwhile, NASA recently said that it is trying to solve the technical glitch and bring the astronauts back home.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams are currently stuck aboard the International Space Station (ISS). They went to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, in its first test with astronauts.

NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams are currently stuck aboard the International Space Station (ISS). They went to the ISS on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, in its first test with astronauts. They were supposed to stay for around eight days, but due to technical glitches in the spacecraft, their return to Earth has been delayed. The human body cannot withstand the harsh environment of space. Due to the absence of gravity, the bodily fluids shift upwards, which can cause fluid overload or dehydration. Under these conditions, kidneys cannot function efficiently which can lead to chronic kidney diseases. The most concerning effect of a long-term stay in space is the redistribution of fluids towards the head, increasing intracranial pressure. Due to this pressure, an astronaut can have vision problems, cognitive impairments, and headaches. The absence of gravity can also lead to muscle or bone loss, further weakening the bones which puts the person at an increased risk of getting fractures in the future. Also Read | Shopping malls in India's Gurugram, Noida receive bomb threats In the microgravity environment, the heart does not need to work hard to pump blood, which can adversely affect a person's cardiovascular fitness and cause structural changes in the heart. In space, astronauts are exposed to high levels of radiation as compared to what they experience on Earth. This exposure has some serious risks including the increased probability of developing cancer and long-term threats to brain health. The lack of gravity in space affects the overall digestion and immune system of the human body. The astronauts are more prone to catching infections, and their gut health is compromised leading to digestive problems. Also Read | Mpox crisis: Pak adopts safety measures; WHO says no need to close borders Extended space missions can also affect the mental health of astronauts and can lead to serious conditions including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore might be going through some of these health conditions in space during their extended stay on the ISS. Meanwhile, NASA recently said that it is trying to solve the technical glitch and bring the astronauts back home. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore stuck in space. How is it affecting their health?

More delays for astronauts stuck in space as Nasa ponders return. Nasa has again delayed a decision about how to bring home two US astronauts stuck in space on the troubled Boeing Starliner mission. The US space agency said in a press conference on Wednesday that it will make a call by the end of August.

More delays for astronauts stuck in space, NASA to decide return by end of August

NASA weighs SpaceX return options for stranded astronauts

The 'Boeing' curse: NASA to decide on return of astronauts by end of August

NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS). The two veteran astronauts were launched into space on June 5 for a mission expected to last eight days. But they have been in space for more than two months as the Boeing Starliner is mired over thruster problems and several helium leaks.

One potential option being considered by NASA to get the astronauts back to Earth is to attach them to a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission that is scheduled to launch in September, and return them to Earth with that mission in February 2025.

That plan would mean the astronauts would spend more than eight months – rather than eight days – aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Also watch |&nbsp;Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025?

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If the SpaceX Crew Dragon is used, the Boeing Starliner craft would be returned to Earth without any crew, under computer control.

Here's a summary of what NASA said:

1. NASA claimed that both astronauts are "doing great" and have been keeping busy on the International Space Station. Both veterans are reportedly mentally and physically prepared for unexpected turns on a space mission.&nbsp;

2. The US space agency added that discussions are now being done on whether the crew can return on the Boeing Starliner, the spacecraft that they used to fly there, or would have to return on a SpaceX vehicle.&nbsp;

3. The two could remain in space for eight months if they do have to wait to return on a SpaceX flight. One issue is that of the space suits. The ones Sunita and Buch are wearing are not fit for use on a SpaceX flight, and they would have to return unsuited in that case which would exacerbate the risks to their way back to Earth.&nbsp;

4. NASA said it still has confidence in the Starliner craft, and that it could still be used to return home in case of an emergency.&nbsp;

5. A decision will be made on the astronaut's return by the end of August, though there's no sharp cut-off date.

NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS).

NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS). The two veteran astronauts were launched into space on June 5 for a mission expected to last eight days. But they have been in space for more than two months as the Boeing Starliner is mired over thruster problems and several helium leaks. One potential option being considered by NASA to get the astronauts back to Earth is to attach them to a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission that is scheduled to launch in September, and return them to Earth with that mission in February 2025. That plan would mean the astronauts would spend more than eight months – rather than eight days – aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Also watch | Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025? × If the SpaceX Crew Dragon is used, the Boeing Starliner craft would be returned to Earth without any crew, under computer control. Here's a summary of what NASA said: 1. NASA claimed that both astronauts are "doing great" and have been keeping busy on the International Space Station. Both veterans are reportedly mentally and physically prepared for unexpected turns on a space mission. 2. The US space agency added that discussions are now being done on whether the crew can return on the Boeing Starliner, the spacecraft that they used to fly there, or would have to return on a SpaceX vehicle. 3. The two could remain in space for eight months if they do have to wait to return on a SpaceX flight. One issue is that of the space suits. The ones Sunita and Buch are wearing are not fit for use on a SpaceX flight, and they would have to return unsuited in that case which would exacerbate the risks to their way back to Earth. 4. NASA said it still has confidence in the Starliner craft, and that it could still be used to return home in case of an emergency. 5. A decision will be made on the astronaut's return by the end of August, though there's no sharp cut-off date.

Sunita Williams, Buch Wilmore could be stuck in space for eight months: NASA

NASA astronauts Barry 'Butch' Wilmore and Sunita Williams - whose stay seems to be extended far beyond what was actually planned - seem to be facing 'life-altering' risks while remaining stranded on the International Space Station&nbsp;(ISS) till 2025, as per the experts.&nbsp;

Boeing's faulty Starliner carried the astronauts to the ISS in June for a trip which was to last for just days but the technical glitch in the aircraft has now created a situation in which these astronauts are not likely to come home until next year.

<h2>Here's how space sojourn is deteriorating the health of astronauts</h2>

According to the studies, if the astronauts remain in space for a long time it can lead to bone density loss, vision problems, intense radiation exposure, muscle atrophy and other health issues.

Speaking to DailyMail.com, an expert said, "The longer you're [in space], the bigger the change." The experts further said that there are high chance the bodies of the two astronauts will start deteriorating.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunita-williams-butch-wilmore-may-be-stuck-in-space-this-summer-due-to-technical-problems-in-boeing-capsule-739855">Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore may be stuck in space this summer due to technical problems in Boeing capsule</a>

"Generally, almost all of the changes that we see with human spaceflight in terms of physiology seem to be dose-dependent," said Rachael Seidler, a professor of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology at the University of&nbsp;Florida, while speaking to DailyMail.com.

"The longer you're there, the bigger the change - at least up to a point," Seidler added.

There is 90 per cent gravity in comparison to the gravity on Earth. "Astronauts experience accelerated bone loss at an alarming rate - about 12 times faster than severe osteoporosis on Earth," said Kyle Zagrodzky, founder and CEO of Bone Health Clinic, while speaking to Newsweek.

"Osteoporosis increases fracture risk, often leading to life-altering injuries. Hip fractures pose a grave concern, as they can strip away independence and increase mortality risk," he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025?

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The astronauts lose around 50 per cent of their muscle mass and change the shape of their hearts as well as the way they function.&nbsp;

The astronauts stand a chance of suffering from loss of muscle, bone, and cardio capacity, vision and cognition problems, and also kidney stones.

The astronauts also get exposed to a year's worth of radiation every day in space which increases the chances of cancer later in life. These risks make it impertinent for the astronauts to return back to Earth as soon as possible.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts Barry 'Butch' Wilmore and Sunita Williams - whose stay seems to be extended far beyond what was actually planned - seem to be facing 'life-altering' risks while remaining stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) till 2025, as per the experts.

NASA astronauts Barry 'Butch' Wilmore and Sunita Williams - whose stay seems to be extended far beyond what was actually planned - seem to be facing 'life-altering' risks while remaining stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) till 2025, as per the experts. Boeing's faulty Starliner carried the astronauts to the ISS in June for a trip which was to last for just days but the technical glitch in the aircraft has now created a situation in which these astronauts are not likely to come home until next year. Here's how space sojourn is deteriorating the health of astronauts According to the studies, if the astronauts remain in space for a long time it can lead to bone density loss, vision problems, intense radiation exposure, muscle atrophy and other health issues. Speaking to DailyMail.com, an expert said, "The longer you're [in space], the bigger the change." The experts further said that there are high chance the bodies of the two astronauts will start deteriorating. Also Read: Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore may be stuck in space this summer due to technical problems in Boeing capsule "Generally, almost all of the changes that we see with human spaceflight in terms of physiology seem to be dose-dependent," said Rachael Seidler, a professor of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology at the University of Florida, while speaking to DailyMail.com. "The longer you're there, the bigger the change - at least up to a point," Seidler added. There is 90 per cent gravity in comparison to the gravity on Earth. "Astronauts experience accelerated bone loss at an alarming rate - about 12 times faster than severe osteoporosis on Earth," said Kyle Zagrodzky, founder and CEO of Bone Health Clinic, while speaking to Newsweek. "Osteoporosis increases fracture risk, often leading to life-altering injuries. Hip fractures pose a grave concern, as they can strip away independence and increase mortality risk," he added. Watch: Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025? The astronauts lose around 50 per cent of their muscle mass and change the shape of their hearts as well as the way they function. The astronauts stand a chance of suffering from loss of muscle, bone, and cardio capacity, vision and cognition problems, and also kidney stones. The astronauts also get exposed to a year's worth of radiation every day in space which increases the chances of cancer later in life. These risks make it impertinent for the astronauts to return back to Earth as soon as possible. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA astronauts facing 'life-altering' risks in space. Here's what can happen to them if they remain stranded

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, the NASA astronauts stuck aboard the International Space Station for two months now, received a terrible jolt on Wednesday. As per the space agency's latest plan, the two of them are staring at a massive delay in their return trip which might not happen before February 2025.

Sunita and Butch launched into space on Boeing's Starliner, its first crewed mission, in June this year. However, the spacecraft developed several issues which NASA has been trying to fix for the longest time.&nbsp;

According to a contingency plan announced by NASA, a two-person crew will be launched on SpaceX's Crew-9 mission in September.

However, it won't be until months later that the crew will return. Starliner's thrusters have developed problems along with helium leaks, leading to concerns that a return trip might prove disastrous. However, Boeing is not doubting the Starliner and had earlier said that it "remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with the crew".&nbsp;

The thruster issue is the main problem facing the Starliner which had issues while docking with the space station. A design flaw is causing the propulsion devices to overheat.

There are four thrusters fitted around the circumference of the rocket in propulsion pods, which NASA officials call "doghouses". These create a thermos-like insulation due to which the heat remains caught inside, causing them to overheat.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/boeing-starliner-is-facing-a-hot-doghouse-problem-and-nasa-is-working-to-fix-it-740082">A 'hot doghouse' problem is plaguing Boeing Starliner and NASA is working to fix it</a>

"What we have found in this flight is we have fired the thrusters more than expected, and I would say more frequently," explained Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew programme manager.&nbsp;

<h2>Boeing and Starliner problems</h2>

Boeing has been marred with a host of problems owing to technical issues with its commercial aeroplanes. Boeing has also pleaded guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge in its fatal 737 MAX crashes.

The two crashes in total claimed the lives of 346 people in Ethiopia as well as Indonesia more than five years ago. This, along with other turbulence and mechanical issues, has cost Boeing at least $3 billion.

WATCH:&nbsp;Boeing Starliner: Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore address press over return delays

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However, NASA entered a $4.2 billion contract with Boeing to build Starliner which would carry astronauts to the ISS. However, the original launch was delayed due to helium leaks in May. Later on June 1, the launch was again aborted at the last minute by a computer abort system. Starliner finally took off on June 5 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.&nbsp;

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, the NASA astronauts stuck aboard the International Space Station for two months now, received a terrible jolt on Wednesday. As per the space agency's latest plan, the two of them are staring at a massive delay in their return trip which might not happen before February 2025.

Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, the NASA astronauts stuck aboard the International Space Station for two months now, received a terrible jolt on Wednesday. As per the space agency's latest plan, the two of them are staring at a massive delay in their return trip which might not happen before February 2025. Sunita and Butch launched into space on Boeing's Starliner, its first crewed mission, in June this year. However, the spacecraft developed several issues which NASA has been trying to fix for the longest time. According to a contingency plan announced by NASA, a two-person crew will be launched on SpaceX's Crew-9 mission in September. However, it won't be until months later that the crew will return. Starliner's thrusters have developed problems along with helium leaks, leading to concerns that a return trip might prove disastrous. However, Boeing is not doubting the Starliner and had earlier said that it "remains confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with the crew". The thruster issue is the main problem facing the Starliner which had issues while docking with the space station. A design flaw is causing the propulsion devices to overheat. There are four thrusters fitted around the circumference of the rocket in propulsion pods, which NASA officials call "doghouses". These create a thermos-like insulation due to which the heat remains caught inside, causing them to overheat. Also Read: A 'hot doghouse' problem is plaguing Boeing Starliner and NASA is working to fix it "What we have found in this flight is we have fired the thrusters more than expected, and I would say more frequently," explained Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew programme manager. Boeing and Starliner problems Boeing has been marred with a host of problems owing to technical issues with its commercial aeroplanes. Boeing has also pleaded guilty to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge in its fatal 737 MAX crashes. The two crashes in total claimed the lives of 346 people in Ethiopia as well as Indonesia more than five years ago. This, along with other turbulence and mechanical issues, has cost Boeing at least $3 billion. WATCH: Boeing Starliner: Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore address press over return delays × However, NASA entered a $4.2 billion contract with Boeing to build Starliner which would carry astronauts to the ISS. However, the original launch was delayed due to helium leaks in May. Later on June 1, the launch was again aborted at the last minute by a computer abort system. Starliner finally took off on June 5 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Sunita Williams won't return to Earth before 2025. Details

NASA officials announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), might return to Earth on SpaceX's Crew Dragon in February 2025 instead of Boeing's Starliner.

Sunita Williams could have to stay in space till 2025

NASA has announced a delay in the launch of SpaceX's Crew-9 mission, which was to carry four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The same vehicle could also serve as a backup for Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore after they got stuck in space due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

This “allows more time for mission managers to finalize return planning” for the Boeing spacecraft and its crew, said the space agency in a statement. A press conference regarding the change will be hosted on Wednesday at 12:30 pm ET.

This statement by NASA has given rise to rumours surrounding the fate of Boeing's Starliner, which is stuck at ISS for two months along with the two crewmembers.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-is-running-on-a-critical-19-day-deadline-to-bring-sunita-williams-from-space-heres-why-747068">NASA is running on critical 19-day deadline to bring Sunita Williams from space. Here's why</a>

In July, NASA suggested that the SpaceX Crew-9 mission could take off as early as August 18, after Williams and Wilmore returned to Earth via Starliner. But now, NASA has confirmed that the SpaceX Crew 9 mission won't takeoff before September 24, keeping them both in space for almost another eight weeks.&nbsp;

The engineers have conducted rigorous tests to pin down the root cause of the trouble that Starliner faced in June during its test flight, Boeing said on July 25. The spacecraft experienced helium leaks and five thrusters suddenly stopped functioning during the flight.&nbsp;

The purpose of conducting tests is to determine whether Starliner could bring its crew back home. But the efforts seem to be halted now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-astronauts-group-captain-shukla-nair-chosen-to-train-at-nasa-746660">Indian astronauts Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Prashant Nair chosen to train at NASA</a>

On July 26, NASA stated that a “flight readiness review” for the spacecraft is expected to start in early August. However, the space agency confirmed to CNN that it has not begun yet as the return date of Starliner is uncertain.

NASA’s acting press secretary, Meira Bernstein, has said that the final decision of when Williams and Wilmore return home lies in the hands of administrator, Bill Nelson.

“His top priority, as always, is the safety of the crew,” Bernstein said.

Boeing has maintained their confidence in Starliner bringing home its crew, according to their August 2 statement. NASA has also indicated that tapping SpaceX for the mission is a contingency but not the desired plan.

Williams and Wilmore have been at the space station for 61 days since their docking on June 6.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA has announced a delay in the launch of SpaceX's Crew-9 mission, which was to carry four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The same vehicle could also serve as a backup for Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore after they got stuck in space due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

NASA has announced a delay in the launch of SpaceX's Crew-9 mission, which was to carry four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The same vehicle could also serve as a backup for Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore after they got stuck in space due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. This “allows more time for mission managers to finalize return planning” for the Boeing spacecraft and its crew, said the space agency in a statement. A press conference regarding the change will be hosted on Wednesday at 12:30 pm ET. This statement by NASA has given rise to rumours surrounding the fate of Boeing's Starliner, which is stuck at ISS for two months along with the two crewmembers. Also read | NASA is running on critical 19-day deadline to bring Sunita Williams from space. Here's why In July, NASA suggested that the SpaceX Crew-9 mission could take off as early as August 18, after Williams and Wilmore returned to Earth via Starliner. But now, NASA has confirmed that the SpaceX Crew 9 mission won't takeoff before September 24, keeping them both in space for almost another eight weeks. The engineers have conducted rigorous tests to pin down the root cause of the trouble that Starliner faced in June during its test flight, Boeing said on July 25. The spacecraft experienced helium leaks and five thrusters suddenly stopped functioning during the flight. The purpose of conducting tests is to determine whether Starliner could bring its crew back home. But the efforts seem to be halted now. Also read | Indian astronauts Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Prashant Nair chosen to train at NASA On July 26, NASA stated that a “flight readiness review” for the spacecraft is expected to start in early August. However, the space agency confirmed to CNN that it has not begun yet as the return date of Starliner is uncertain. NASA’s acting press secretary, Meira Bernstein, has said that the final decision of when Williams and Wilmore return home lies in the hands of administrator, Bill Nelson. “His top priority, as always, is the safety of the crew,” Bernstein said. Boeing has maintained their confidence in Starliner bringing home its crew, according to their August 2 statement. NASA has also indicated that tapping SpaceX for the mission is a contingency but not the desired plan. Williams and Wilmore have been at the space station for 61 days since their docking on June 6. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA delays SpaceX Crew-9 mission as rumours about Boeing Starliner's safety emerge

NASA is now running on a critical deadline of 19 days to bring back astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the ISS who are stuck in space because their Boeing Starliner spacecraft has encountered some technical issues.

There have been malfunctions in the thruster and helium system because of which their return has been delayed and now the 19-day deadline has emerged because the Crew-9 mission nears.&nbsp;

The engineers have been tirelessly working to resolve the issues along with considering the potential alternatives, including a SpaceX Dragon capsule, to ensure the safe return of the astronauts amidst a challenging mission.

The Starliner had docked at the ISS on June 13, 2024, and was earlier scheduled to make a comeback to Earth after completing a week-long mission.

Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5, 2024, in Florida.

<h2>How did the Starliner get stuck in space?</h2>

The aim of the mission was to test the Starliner in their first manned flight, which is a major milestone for the commercial crew programme of Boeing.

The spacecraft was able to dock with the ISS successfully, however, as it approached, five of its 28 thrusters had shut down unexpectedly.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-will-sunita-williams-return-home-from-space-indian-origin-astronaut-speaks-from-space-739714">When will Sunita Williams return home? Indian-origin astronaut speaks from space</a>

Also, the engineers found five small helium leaks in the service module of the spacecraft. Because of these issues, the Starliner was not able to safely undock and return to Earth.

NASA and&nbsp;Boeing's&nbsp;engineers are now working continuously to solve the issues with the Starliner.&nbsp;

NASA’s commercial crew program manager, Steve Stich, said that they have not yet determined a return timeline for Williams and Wilmore.

The thrusters and helium systems of the spacecraft are important for its safe re-entry into the atmosphere of the Earth and any malfunction can pose a significant risk to the safety of the astronauts.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is NASA facing the deadline and how it is complicating astronauts' rescue?</h2>

The rescue mission of the astronauts is facing a complication because the upcoming Crew-9 mission needs the docking ports at the ISS which is currently accommodated by the Starliner.&nbsp;

The Crew-9 mission will be launched on August 18, 2024 and will transport NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Nick Hague, and Stephanie Wilson, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Gorbunov, to the ISS through a SpaceX&nbsp;Dragon spacecraft.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The Crew-9's arrival has added urgency to the situation as the docking port needs to be cleared for which the Starliner needs to be moved.

Watch:&nbsp;China space rocket blows up, causes massive fireball

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If the Starliner doesn't become operative, NASA will have to find alternative methods to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth, which also includes chances of using a SpaceX Dragon capsule.

Speaking about the concerns raised regarding Starliner's performance and safety, Commander Wilmore said that they are confident about returning safely.&nbsp;

"We're absolutely confident," he said, as he spoke about the readiness of the team to adapt procedures based on new data.

As the deadline approaches, the world continues to watch how NASA will resolve this crisis and end this critical mission successfully.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

NASA is now running on a critical deadline of 19 days to bring back astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the ISS who are stuck in space because their Boeing Starliner spacecraft has encountered some technical issues.

NASA is now running on a critical deadline of 19 days to bring back astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the ISS who are stuck in space because their Boeing Starliner spacecraft has encountered some technical issues. There have been malfunctions in the thruster and helium system because of which their return has been delayed and now the 19-day deadline has emerged because the Crew-9 mission nears. The engineers have been tirelessly working to resolve the issues along with considering the potential alternatives, including a SpaceX Dragon capsule, to ensure the safe return of the astronauts amidst a challenging mission. The Starliner had docked at the ISS on June 13, 2024, and was earlier scheduled to make a comeback to Earth after completing a week-long mission. Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5, 2024, in Florida. How did the Starliner get stuck in space? The aim of the mission was to test the Starliner in their first manned flight, which is a major milestone for the commercial crew programme of Boeing. The spacecraft was able to dock with the ISS successfully, however, as it approached, five of its 28 thrusters had shut down unexpectedly. Also Read: When will Sunita Williams return home? Indian-origin astronaut speaks from space Also, the engineers found five small helium leaks in the service module of the spacecraft. Because of these issues, the Starliner was not able to safely undock and return to Earth. NASA and Boeing's engineers are now working continuously to solve the issues with the Starliner. NASA’s commercial crew program manager, Steve Stich, said that they have not yet determined a return timeline for Williams and Wilmore. The thrusters and helium systems of the spacecraft are important for its safe re-entry into the atmosphere of the Earth and any malfunction can pose a significant risk to the safety of the astronauts. Why is NASA facing the deadline and how it is complicating astronauts' rescue? The rescue mission of the astronauts is facing a complication because the upcoming Crew-9 mission needs the docking ports at the ISS which is currently accommodated by the Starliner. The Crew-9 mission will be launched on August 18, 2024 and will transport NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Nick Hague, and Stephanie Wilson, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Gorbunov, to the ISS through a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The Crew-9's arrival has added urgency to the situation as the docking port needs to be cleared for which the Starliner needs to be moved. Watch: China space rocket blows up, causes massive fireball If the Starliner doesn't become operative, NASA will have to find alternative methods to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth, which also includes chances of using a SpaceX Dragon capsule. Speaking about the concerns raised regarding Starliner's performance and safety, Commander Wilmore said that they are confident about returning safely. "We're absolutely confident," he said, as he spoke about the readiness of the team to adapt procedures based on new data. As the deadline approaches, the world continues to watch how NASA will resolve this crisis and end this critical mission successfully. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA is running on critical 19-day deadline to bring Sunita Williams from space. Here's why

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore find themselves in an indefinite stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) after a 10-day mission turned into a prolonged ordeal. Watch in for more details!

Butch Wilmore & Sunita Williams stranded in space, NASA says 'no date set for astronauts'

Stuck in space for 52 days, no way home for astronauts; Helium leaks delaying return

NASA's Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore faces indefinite stay in space

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore's extended stay in space has exacerbated bone density loss and muscle atrophy. With delays in their return to Earth due to a helium leak in their spacecraft, the Boeing Starliner, concerns mount as to how long the astronauts will be left in space before things get worse.

NASA'S Sunita Williams, Barry Battle Bone, Muscle Loss Due to Extended Stay in Space

Two NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) astronauts- Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams- would remain at the International Space Station (ISS) with no official return date yet, NASA said on Thursday (July 25).

Two NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) astronauts- Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams- would remain at the International Space Station (ISS) with no official return date yet, NASA said on Thursday (July 25). Wilmore and Williams rode to orbit in a Boeing Starliner from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5. They were scheduled to stay a week in orbit. However, during the flight, the spacecraft suffered a series of issues that extended the two astronauts' stay aboard the ISS. Five thrusters failed as the capsule approached the space station on June 6, a day after liftoff. Four have since been reactivated. 'We're making great progress but...' Addressing a press conference, NASA official Steve Stich said, "We don't have a major announcement today relative to a return date." Stich, the program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program, added, "We're making great progress, but we're just not quite ready to do that." Also read | A 'hot doghouse' problem is plaguing Boeing Starliner and NASA is working to fix it Stich also said that NASA and Boeing will perform a test fire of the spacecraft as early as next week. He added that following this review, an undock time will be set. Last week, engineers completed testing on a spare thruster in the New Mexico desert and will rip it apart to try to understand what went wrong ahead of the Starliner’s docking. 'Spacecraft is still safe' It appears degraded seals are to blame for the helium leaks and thruster problems — entirely separate issues — but more analysis is needed, a report by the news agency Associated Press said. Each of the 28 manoeuvring thrusters can fit in a hand and weighs around a kilogram. The capsule is also outfitted with bigger engines for dropping out of orbit at flight’s end. All these are part of a segment that is discarded before landing, which means nothing to study for future flights. This was Boeing’s first test flight with a crew aboard. NASA has said that the spacecraft is still safe and pointed out it has enough fuel to remain in orbit until mid-August at the latest. (With inputs from agencies)

No official return date yet for Boeing Starliner astronauts as they remain stuck on ISS

The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected.

"I have a real good feeling in my heart that this spacecraft will bring us home, no problem," NASA astronaut Sunita "Suni" Williams said during the test crew's first news conference since docking to the ISS more than a month ago.

Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore, both veteran NASA astronauts and former US&nbsp;Navy test pilots, were launched aboard Starliner from Florida on June 5 and docked the next day at the ISS, where they were initially scheduled to spend roughly eight days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starliner-lifts-off-spacecraft-with-sunita-williams-on-board-flies-to-space-after-multiple-delays-watch-729129">Starliner lifts off! Spacecraft with Sunita Williams on board flies to space after multiple delays. Watch</a>

A series of issues with Starliner's propulsion system has extended their mission indefinitely. Five of Starliner's 28 maneuvering thrusters went dead during its 24-hour trek to the station, a propellant valve failed to properly close and there have been five leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thrusters.

"We're absolutely confident," Wilmore told reporters. "That mantra you've heard, failure is not an option."

"And that's why we're staying, because we're going to test it. That's what we do," Wilmore said, acknowledging that an ongoing investigation by the US&nbsp;space agency and Boeing involving thruster tests on Earth is key for their return.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing Starliner remains unreliable, how will astronauts return?

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The current test mission is Boeing's final step before the spacecraft can clinch NASA certification for routine astronaut flights and become the second US&nbsp;orbital capsule alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon, which has dominated the nascent human spaceflight market amid Starliner's development delays.

NASA officials and Boeing engineers have focused on the faulty thrusters and aim to conduct weeks of further testing before allowing Starliner to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth. That testing includes firing identical thrusters at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico to get insight into what might be plaguing the thrusters in space.

The testing could last "a couple weeks" or more, followed by a NASA review of the resulting data, Stich said. Starliner is approved to stay docked to the ISS for 45 days, or up to 90 days using various backup systems and depending on the health of its lithium-ion batteries, which have caused concerns in the past.

Though NASA and Boeing have said Starliner is capable of returning the astronauts to Earth in the event of an emergency on the ISS, the capsule is not approved to fly home under normal, non-emergency circumstances until its thruster issues are resolved or at least better understood.

NASA and Boeing officials have emphasized that the two astronauts are not stranded in space.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected.

The first two astronauts to fly Boeing's Starliner capsule said from the International Space Station on Wednesday (July 10) that they were confident in the spacecraft's ability to return them home whenever the company and NASA fix an array of thruster issues that have kept them in space far longer than expected. "I have a real good feeling in my heart that this spacecraft will bring us home, no problem," NASA astronaut Sunita "Suni" Williams said during the test crew's first news conference since docking to the ISS more than a month ago. Williams and Barry "Butch" Wilmore, both veteran NASA astronauts and former US Navy test pilots, were launched aboard Starliner from Florida on June 5 and docked the next day at the ISS, where they were initially scheduled to spend roughly eight days. Also read | Starliner lifts off! Spacecraft with Sunita Williams on board flies to space after multiple delays. Watch A series of issues with Starliner's propulsion system has extended their mission indefinitely. Five of Starliner's 28 maneuvering thrusters went dead during its 24-hour trek to the station, a propellant valve failed to properly close and there have been five leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thrusters. "We're absolutely confident," Wilmore told reporters. "That mantra you've heard, failure is not an option." "And that's why we're staying, because we're going to test it. That's what we do," Wilmore said, acknowledging that an ongoing investigation by the US space agency and Boeing involving thruster tests on Earth is key for their return. Also watch | Gravitas: Boeing Starliner remains unreliable, how will astronauts return? × The current test mission is Boeing's final step before the spacecraft can clinch NASA certification for routine astronaut flights and become the second US orbital capsule alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon, which has dominated the nascent human spaceflight market amid Starliner's development delays. NASA officials and Boeing engineers have focused on the faulty thrusters and aim to conduct weeks of further testing before allowing Starliner to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth. That testing includes firing identical thrusters at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico to get insight into what might be plaguing the thrusters in space. The testing could last "a couple weeks" or more, followed by a NASA review of the resulting data, Stich said. Starliner is approved to stay docked to the ISS for 45 days, or up to 90 days using various backup systems and depending on the health of its lithium-ion batteries, which have caused concerns in the past. Though NASA and Boeing have said Starliner is capable of returning the astronauts to Earth in the event of an emergency on the ISS, the capsule is not approved to fly home under normal, non-emergency circumstances until its thruster issues are resolved or at least better understood. NASA and Boeing officials have emphasized that the two astronauts are not stranded in space. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

When will Sunita Williams return home? Indian-origin astronaut speaks from space

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