Boeing’s Astronauts Stranded in Space: Everything to Know

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were launched into space on Jun. 5, 2024, aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. Originally, their mission, known as Crew Flight Test (CFT), was expected to last just 10 days. However, due to a series of technical issues, the mission has now extended to over six months.

The Boeing Starliner has encountered numerous problems since its launch, including helium leaks and propulsion system failures. These issues have left NASA uncertain about the spacecraft's reliability and have delayed the astronauts' return to Earth.

On Aug. 31, Wilmore reported a "strange noise" coming from a speaker inside the Starliner capsule. Describing the sound as a pulsing noise, he informed mission control in Houston, sparking a new investigation into the spacecraft's condition, which was diagnosed as feedback from a speaker.

NASA has been deliberating on the best course of action for bringing the astronauts home. The agency’s program control board has not yet reached a consensus on whether the underlying issues with the Starliner have been fully resolved, particularly concerning its propulsion system.

Astronauts’ Activities

Despite the delays, Wilmore and Williams have remained busy on the ISS. Both are experienced US Navy test pilots, fully trained to handle an extended mission. They have been performing additional maintenance tasks and contributing to the station’s scientific research.

NASA’s chief astronaut, Joe Acaba, has assured that the astronauts were prepared for potential mission extensions. The agency has maintained continuous communication with them to ensure they remain physically and mentally fit.

Supplies and Safety

The ISS is equipped with a four-month contingency supply of food, oxygen, and other essentials, which the astronauts have been using during their extended stay. The latest supply arrived to the ISS on Aug.6 carrying three tons of food, fuel, and other supplies. NASA has also ensured that appropriately sized spacesuits are available for any extra-vehicular activities they might need to undertake.

Expected Return

NASA has confirmed that Boeing’s Starliner will return to Earth uncrewed as part of a strategy to mitigate risk and continue essential testing. The spacecraft, docked at the International Space Station (ISS) since early June, will return without Wilmore and Williams. They will instead return aboard SpaceX’s Crew-9 vehicle, scheduled for launch on Sep. 24.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson acknowledged the challenging nature of test flights and praised both NASA and Boeing teams for their thorough analysis and transparent discussions. Ken Bowersox, NASA’s Associate Administrator for the Space Operations Mission Directorate, also commended the teams for their focus on safety. Steve Stich, Manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, noted that while the Starliner is a capable spacecraft, higher certainty is needed for crewed missions.

NASA is preparing for the Crew-9 mission, which will carry Wilmore, Williams, and two additional astronauts. SpaceX will adjust the Crew-9 manifest to include extra cargo and personal items for the returning astronauts. The Crew-9 mission is set to be the ninth rotational flight under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.