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NASA considers alternative return options for Boeing Starliner astronauts due to technical issues.
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SpaceX’s Crew 9 mission may be used to bring Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore back to Earth in early 2025.
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NASA’s primary plan is to fix Starliner’s issues and return astronauts on the original spacecraft.
NASA is facing a challenging situation with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which has been docked at the International Space Station (ISS) since June 6. Technical issues have extended the stay of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, prompting NASA to explore alternative return options.
One possible plan involves using SpaceX’s Crew 9 mission, scheduled for launch on September 25, 2024, to bring the astronauts back to Earth in early 2025. NASA is working with SpaceX to ensure readiness for this plan, which would involve configuring the Crew 9 Dragon spacecraft to carry only two passengers to the ISS.
NASA’s primary focus remains on fixing the Starliner’s technical issues to enable a safe return of the astronauts on their original spacecraft. However, the agency is preparing for alternative scenarios to ensure the astronauts’ safe return.
