Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore have been "stranded" in space for over two months due to technical problems with the Starliner spacecraft. Originally scheduled to return to Earth within eight days, the astronauts now face a potential delay of eight more months. This unexpected extension puts them at a heightened risk as they could run out of oxygen if the return mission faces further delays. Former commander of U.S. military space systems, Rudy Ridolfi, has raised concerns over the dangers the astronauts could face during this extended stay.
Astronauts Stranded in Space Amid Technical Woes
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are facing an extended stay in space after experiencing technical problems with the Starliner spacecraft. The astronauts were originally scheduled to return to Earth within eight days after their mission to the International Space Station (ISS), but now face a potential delay of eight more months.
Technical Problems with Starliner
The Starliner spacecraft, built by Boeing, was designed to transport astronauts to and from the ISS. However, during a test flight in July 2021, the spacecraft malfunctioned and ended up in the wrong orbit. This forced NASA to postpone the crewed mission, which was supposed to take place in December 2022.
The Starliner spacecraft is currently undergoing repairs, but Boeing has not yet identified the cause of the malfunctions. NASA officials are working closely with Boeing to resolve the issue and ensure the safety of the crew.
Extended Stay in Space
Williams and Wilmore have been living and working on the ISS since March 2023. While their extended stay presents some risks, NASA officials say that the astronauts are well-trained and have sufficient supplies.
However, there are concerns that the astronauts could run out of oxygen if the return mission faces further delays. Former commander of U.S. military space systems, Rudy Ridolfi, has raised concerns over the dangers the astronauts could face.
Background on Sunita Williams
Sunita Williams is an Indian-origin American astronaut who has served as a commander of the ISS twice. She holds the record for the longest spacewalk by a woman, with a total of 50 hours spent outside the ISS.
Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio, to Indian immigrant parents. She graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1987 and was selected by NASA as an astronaut candidate in 1998.
Top 5 FAQs
1. When will Williams and Wilmore return to Earth?
The astronauts were originally scheduled to return to Earth on May 31st, 2023. However, due to the technical problems with the Starliner spacecraft, their return has been delayed. The new target date is not yet known.
2. Are the astronauts in danger?
NASA officials say that the astronauts are well-trained and have sufficient supplies. However, there are concerns that they could run out of oxygen if the return mission faces further delays.
3. What is NASA doing to resolve the issue?
NASA is working closely with Boeing to repair the Starliner spacecraft and identify the cause of the malfunctions. The agency is also exploring alternative options for returning the astronauts to Earth if necessary.
4. Who is Sunita Williams?
Sunita Williams is an Indian-origin American astronaut who holds the record for the longest spacewalk by a woman. She has served as a commander of the ISS twice.
5. What is the Starliner spacecraft?
The Starliner spacecraft is a reusable spacecraft designed to transport astronauts to and from the ISS. It is built by Boeing and is part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program.
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