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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck in space due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft.
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NASA will share an update tonight on the safe return of the astronauts, including results from ground hot fire testing.
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The testing aims to ensure the Starliner’s safe comeback to Earth after multiple delays due to helium leaks, malfunctioning thrusters, and a faulty propellant valve.
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been unable to return to Earth safely due to technical issues with the Starliner spacecraft. Tonight, NASA will share an update on the mission and the astronauts’ safe return. The briefing will include insights on the ground hot fire testing being conducted to ensure the Starliner’s safe comeback to Earth.
The testing has been crucial in identifying and addressing issues with the spacecraft’s thrusters, which have overheated during firing, and helium leaks. NASA’s commercial crew manager Steve Stich explained that the leaks appear to be connected to how frequently the thrusters are used. Despite the challenges, Sunita Williams remains confident in the spacecraft’s ability to bring them home safely.
Williams highlighted the rigorous simulations she and Wilmore have undergone, preparing them for any emergency. She expressed her confidence in the spacecraft and the team’s ability to figure out the best way to return home if needed. Tonight’s update will provide crucial information on the next steps for the astronauts’ safe return.
UPDATE: Tomorrow’s briefing on @NASA‘s @BoeingSpace Crew Flight Test mission will be televised live, starting at 11:30am ET.
Interested media must RSVP the @NASA_Johnson newsroom to attend. More: https://t.co/eBh9fuzwyl https://t.co/lyzADqC2m9
— NASA Commercial Crew (@Commercial_Crew) July 24, 2024
