NASA Considers SpaceX for Astronaut Return Amid Starliner Issues, Delays Crew-9 to September 24

Aug 7, 2024, 08:04 PM

NASA is facing challenges with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which has been stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) due to technical issues, including helium leaks and thruster problems. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who were supposed to return after an eight-day mission, have been in space for 63 days. NASA is considering using SpaceX's Crew Dragon as a contingency plan to bring them back, potentially extending their stay until February 2025. A decision on whether to bring the Starliner back with or without crew is expected by mid-August. NASA officials, including Ken Bowersox and Steve Stich, have acknowledged internal disagreements regarding the safety of the Starliner return. An August 7 teleconference provided updates on these issues.