NASA’s Makes ‘Tough Decision’ to Retrieve Stranded Astronauts

By: Sam Watanuki | Last updated: Sep 03, 2024

NASA faced an unexpected challenge when astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams were left stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024. Their return journey was delayed due to propulsion issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.

NASA has had to make tough decisions to ensure their safe return to Earth.

The Boeing Starliner’s Propulsion Problems

The Boeing Starliner, launched on June 5, 2024, experienced several critical failures. Five maneuvering thrusters stalled, and multiple helium leaks were detected, alongside a faulty propellant valve.

Boeing’s Starliner craft approaching the International Space Station with Earth seen below it.

Source: Bob Hines/NASA/Wikimedia Commons

These issues made the spacecraft too dangerous for the crew’s return journey, leading NASA to conclude that Starliner should return uncrewed to Earth.

A New Plan Emerges

In light of the Starliner’s malfunctions, NASA devised a new plan. It was decided that astronauts Wilmore and Williams would return home aboard the SpaceX Crew-9 mission instead.

Source: Picryl

This shift required careful coordination and resulted in reshuffling the Crew-9 lineup.

The Decision to Downsize Crew-9

To accommodate Wilmore and Williams on the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, NASA made the difficult decision to reduce the Crew-9 team from four to two members.

A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft aboard is seen at sunset on the launch pad at Space Launch Complex 41 ahead of the NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test on May 31, 2024 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Source: Joel Kowsky/NASA via Getty Images

Initially set to launch with four astronauts, the Crew-9 mission now features only Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov, each with crucial roles in ensuring mission success.

Balancing Experience and Safety

NASA Chief Astronaut Joe Acaba, based at the Johnson Space Center, made the call to select Nick Hague to command the Crew-9 mission.

A group of many people who are mission managers with NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance during a test flight for the Starliner capsule.

Source: NASA/Wikimedia Commons

With over 200 days in space and multiple missions under his belt, Hague’s experience was vital in maintaining an integrated crew capable of safe station operations alongside Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov.

The Challenges of Reshuffling Crews

Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson, who were originally slated for the Crew-9 mission, were reassigned. This decision, while challenging, was necessary to ensure the safe return of Wilmore and Williams.

An up-close look at the top of Boeing’s Starliner craft seen in the daytime.

Source: NASA/Joel Kowsky/Wikimedia Commons

Both Cardman and Wilson remain dedicated to their future missions.

Nick Hague: A Seasoned Veteran

Nick Hague, an astronaut with 203 days logged in space, is no stranger to challenges. In 2018, he survived a rocket booster failure during his first launch, leading to a dramatic in-flight abort and safe landing.

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft approaching the International Space Station amid black space.

Source: Bob Hines/NASA/Wikimedia Commons

His experience and calm under pressure make him a fitting commander for the Crew-9 mission amidst these unexpected changes.

Aleksandr Gorbunov: The First Mission

For cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, Crew-9 will mark his first trip to space. An engineer with a strong background in spacecraft and upper stage operations, Gorbunov’s skills will be crucial for maintaining the ISS’s systems.

An up-close look at the Starliner capsule and its rocket seen on its launchpad in the daytime.

Source: NASA/Joel Kowsky/Wikimedia Commons

His debut adds a layer of intrigue to the mission, as he joins seasoned veterans on a high-stakes journey.

Preparing for a Complex Return Journey

Wilmore and Williams will stay aboard the ISS until February 2025, when they will return to Earth on the Crew-9 Dragon capsule.

NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore posing and smiling in front of the Starliner capsule.

Source: NASA/Wikimedia Commons

This extended stay means more time for scientific research and maintenance tasks, keeping the crew busy while they await their return trip.

Confidence in the Crew

Despite the challenges, NASA’s confidence in the Crew-9 members is unwavering. “I have the utmost confidence in all our crew,” said Joe Acaba.

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore (L) and Suni Williams (R) wear Boeing spacesuits as they prepare to depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station to board the Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft

Source: Joel Kowsky/NASA via Getty Images

This sentiment is echoed by Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson, who expressed their support for Hague and Gorbunov, highlighting the camaraderie and professionalism among the astronauts.

Looking Ahead to Future Missions

While Cardman and Wilson won’t be flying on Crew-9, they remain part of NASA’s future mission plans.

Source: Wikimedia

Their reassignment shows NASA’s strategic approach to crew assignments, ensuring that all astronauts have opportunities to contribute to ongoing and future space exploration endeavors.

A Nod to Resilience

The decisions surrounding Crew-9 and the rescue of Wilmore and Williams reflect the resilience and determination of NASA and its international partners.

People collect parachutes and parts of the Starliner craft after it lands during sunrise.

Source: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Wikimedia Commons

As space exploration pushes the boundaries of human capability, it’s this resilience and determination that will continue to drive NASA’s future forward.