Sunita Williams May Have To Stay In Space Till February 2025: Report

Boeing Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who have been stuck at the International Space Station (ISS) since early June, may now have to extend their stay in space until February 2025. NASA is considering various options for the return of stranded astronauts. According to the US space agency, one potential option is to attach the two astronauts to a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission scheduled for September, potentially bringing them back to Earth in February 2025.

During a news briefing on Wednesday, a NASA official said that no firm decisions had been made when it comes to next steps, reported the BBC. However, NASA is considering whether the two astronauts could return on board a SpaceX craft instead of Boeing’s Starliner capsule.

Notably, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams blasted off on a mission aboard a Boeing Starliner to the International Space Station on June 5. However, problems appeared as the spacecraft reached ISS. This included leaks in its propulsion system and some of its thrusters shutting down. The BBC reported that the astronauts need an alternative mode of transport to get home if the Boeing Starliner is not deemed safe to return to earth.

At the same time, NASA's new plan indicates Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams would spend more than eight months aboard the ISS. NASA officials reportedly said it could take a week or more to make a final decision on the matter. NASA recently delivered more food and supplies to the space station, including extra clothes for the two astronauts.