The end to two astronauts’ seemingly extended trip finally appears to be in sight as NASA takes action.
Sixth Inaugural Flight Got off to a Good Start
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The Boeing Starliner carrying Astronauts Butch Wilmore (61) and Suni Williams (58) took off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on the 5th of June without a hitch. According to NASA, this mission marked the sixth inaugural trip of manned space vessels in the history of the US.
Initial Takeoff Postponed Twice
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This space mission was previously delayed on two occasions. The crew was set to take off in May before the trip was suspended due to technical issues.
The Trip was Meant to last Eight Days
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This routine round-trip to the International Space Station wasn’t meant to last beyond eight days. The Astronaut pair were expected to touch down by the 14th of June.
Malfunctioning Equipment the Main Culprits
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The Starliner space vessel showed signs of equipment malfunction during the trip. According to reports, the shuttle had five malfunctioning thrusters while its propulsion system also leaked Helium gas.
Experts Previously Aware of Equipment Malfunction
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Reports indicate that experts knew of malfunctioning equipment but decided the issues could not hamper the Astronauts’ return trip.
Shuttle Declared Unsafe for Return Trip
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Days after successfully arriving at the International Space Station, NASA revealed that the aircraft was unfit for a return trip. Attempting such a journey would put the lives of the Astronaut pair at risk.
Earliest Return Trip Previously Scheduled for 2025
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Seeking to provide a secure return trip within the shortest possible time, NASA conceived plans for a February 2025 rescue.
Space Shuttles have been Lost in Past Mishaps
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The NASA administrator says two space shuttles have been lost in previous accidents. He blames the pervasive culture that limits information gathering and sharing.
Space Travel is not without Risks
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Despite the recent advancements in technology, space travel remains a risky venture. Things could go wrong, even with a routine test flight.
Astronauts not Stranded
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Amid growing unrest, NASA’s commercial crew program manager, Steve Stich, said the two astronauts “are not stranded in space.”
Forced to Ration Clothes
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When it became apparent that they would overstay their scheduled trip, the veteran Astronauts had no choice but to ration their clothes.
Crew Safety Remain Top Priority
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The makers of the space shuttle assure the general public of their commitment to ensuring the safe return of the Astronauts. In a statement, Boeing says it “continues to focus, first and foremost, on the safety of the crew…”
Astronauts Adapting to Current Reality
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The veteran astronauts have already adapted to life in the space station. Due to limited bunk spaces, Wilmore uses a sleeping bag in the Japanese Space Agency’s Kibo module.
No Risks to Astronauts
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Boeing program manager Mark Nappi says, “The crew is not in any danger.” His statement comes amidst growing public concerns about the risks of extended stays in outer space.
Sufficient Supplies Are Available
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Addressing concerns about the welfare of the Astronaut pair, former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino says, “They do have extras up there, but they also have supply ships that go up there.”
Rival Space Shuttle Maker Considered
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During a meeting on August 24th, NASA weighed its options and decided that a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule would be perfect for bringing the Astronaut pair home.
Earliest Return now Scheduled for September
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NASA representatives have decided that the Astronaut pair will return by early September. This newest date brings the scheduled return date forward by approximately four months.
Astronaut Pair Making the Most of the Situation
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Undeterred by their current situation, the Astronauts are putting significant effort into maximizing their time. In a statement, Williams says, “We’re learning how to optimize our specific situation and make sure that we know everything about it.”
Crew Remain in High Spirits
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The astronaut pair remains confident about making their return trip. In a widely broadcast conversation, Williams says they are having a great time in space and that she feels certain that “the spacecraft will bring us home…”
Failure, Not an Option
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Undaunted by their situation, the pair Astronauts remain resolute in their mission. According to Wilmore, “Failure is not an option. And that’s why we’re staying here now.”
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