NASA to decide on return for stranded astronauts at ISS by month's end

NASA is on the brink of making a crucial decision regarding the return of two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stationed at the International Space Station (ISS) for over two months. Initially launched in June on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, the mission, intended to last just over a week, faced delays due to unforeseen issues with the vehicle during its journey to the ISS.

Thorough Analysis Underway

In light of the situation, NASA officials revealed that engineers and technical experts have been meticulously examining weeks of data from various tests conducted on the Starliner. They are currently deliberating on different options for the astronauts' return to Earth. According to Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of NASA’s Space Operations Mission Directorate, the analysis phase is expected to conclude next week, followed by a formal review around the end of the next week or potentially the beginning of the subsequent week.

As NASA weighs its options, a significant decision looms regarding whether to bring Wilmore and Williams back aboard the troubled Starliner or to utilize one of SpaceX’s Dragon capsules for their return journey. The final determination on the course of action is anticipated to be made by the end of this month, as NASA continues to navigate this unprecedented situation.