NASA Might Turn to Elon Musk for Sunita Williams’ Space Rescue

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Astronauts who travelled to orbit aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft may remain at the International Space Station (ISS) until 2025, with plans to return via SpaceX. NASA and Boeing have been assessing whether Starliner is safe enough for the astronauts’ return to Earth. Although Boeing maintains confidence in the craft’s safety, NASA has been formulating contingency plans involving SpaceX.

The possibility of NASA relying on Elon Musk’s company to complete Boeing’s mission has recently increased. NASA is considering launching a SpaceX crew vehicle to the ISS in September with two available seats, which could be used by Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, the astronauts sent to the ISS by Boeing about two months ago. If this plan proceeds, they will remain on the ISS until early next year when SpaceX’s vehicle returns to Earth.

Ken Bowersox, a senior NASA official and former astronaut, stated that there is no requirement for the crew to return on Starliner. Concerns about Starliner’s readiness emerged from recent test results, and NASA is expected to make a decision on the next steps by mid-August. However, no final decision has been made on whether to use Boeing or SpaceX.

Boeing remains confident in Starliner, asserting that it will make necessary adjustments if NASA opts for an uncrewed return. Wilmore and Williams have been aboard the space station since 6 June, with their stay extended due to technical issues with Starliner, including thruster failures and helium leaks.

Meanwhile, NASA has delayed a planned SpaceX launch from mid-August to 24 September to allow more time to finalise the astronauts’ return plans. If NASA chooses SpaceX, Wilmore and Williams would stay on the ISS until February 2025, when SpaceX’s vehicle is scheduled to return.

Starliner’s inaugural crewed flight has come under significant scrutiny, as NASA seeks to have both Boeing and SpaceX vehicles available to ensure continuous access to the ISS. While Boeing maintains that Starliner is ready, recent challenges have highlighted the difficulties the company has faced in developing the spacecraft, particularly in comparison to SpaceX, which completed its first crewed ISS mission over four years ago. During their extended stay, Wilmore and Williams have continued their work aboard the ISS, engaging in scientific research and equipment maintenance.