Sunita Williams In Space Until 2025?

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams who traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing's Starliner may return in February 2025 using a different spacecraft if Starliner is still deemed unsafe. Currently SpaceX's Crew Dragon is a potential alternative for their return.

The mission initially expected to last about eight days has been extended due to issues with Starliner's propulsion system raising safety concerns for their return.

Boeing is exploring options to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return if necessary. Recent problems including thruster failures and helium leaks have complicated Starliner's performance leading to ongoing tests and debates within NASA. The spacecraft's mission is crucial for NASA's certification of Starliner for regular astronaut flights but delays and cost overruns have plagued its development.

NASA has also delayed SpaceX's Crew Dragon mission to adjust for possible changes. The final decision on whether to use Crew Dragon or Starliner for the return will be made soon.