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NASA Considers SpaceX Dragon to Rescue Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore Amid Starliner Issues

Aug 7, 2024, 07:59 PM

NASA is facing challenges with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which has encountered technical issues, leaving astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore stranded on the International Space Station (ISS). The spacecraft suffers from helium leaks and thruster problems, complicating its ability to safely return to Earth. In response, NASA is considering using SpaceX's Dragon capsule as a contingency plan to bring the astronauts back. The situation has prompted NASA to delay the Crew-9 mission, originally scheduled for September 24, as they assess the safety and feasibility of Starliner's return. Boeing's handling of the situation has been criticized, with internal disagreements within NASA regarding the spacecraft's safety. A press conference highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the Starliner's status, as officials used the term 'uncertainty' multiple times. NASA remains hopeful that ongoing tests will demonstrate Starliner's capability to safely return its crew.