NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore face further delay in return to earth

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are facing another  delay in their return from the International Space Station (ISS) due to ongoing technical challenges. The duo, who launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner on its first crewed test flight, were initially scheduled for a short stay but have remained on the ISS for more than 9 months. 

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The latest delay comes as NASA and Boeing  work to resolve issues with the Starliner spacecraft before approving its return journey. Engineers have been conducting rigorous tests to ensure the vehicle’s systems are fully operational and safe for re-entry. While no immediate concerns for the astronauts’ safety have been reported, mission teams are proceeding cautiously prioritizing a successful and secure landing. 

Williams and Wilmore have remained active aboard the ISS, assisting with various research experiments and station maintenance tasks during their extended  stay. NASA officials have assured that the astronauts have ample supplies and that their return will only be approved once all technical concerns are addressed. 

While a new return date is yet to be confirmed, NASA remains committed to bringing Williams and Wilmore back safely once conditions are deemed optimal.