On June 5, 2024, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, along with commander Barry Wilmore, launched aboard a Boeing Starliner rocket to the ISS. Their mission, the Starliner's first crewed flight, was set to last just one week.
The Boeing Starliner successfully docked at the ISS a day after launch. Sunita and Barry were tasked with conducting crucial research and maintenance during their brief six-day stay on the station.
What was meant to be a short mission extended unexpectedly. A critical malfunction in the Boeing Starliner left Sunita and Barry stranded on the ISS, far beyond their scheduled return date.
During the flight, five thrusters failed, and helium leaks were detected in the propulsion system. NASA postponed the return until they could guarantee the Starliner’s safe reentry, adding to the astronauts' uncertainty.
Though the ISS is well-equipped, Sunita and Barry had to adjust to the challenges of an extended stay. They’ve kept their spirits high, continuing their work while awaiting a solution to their predicament.
With no quick fix in sight for the Starliner, NASA has finally decided to bring the astronauts back using SpaceX. A Crew-9 spacecraft has been earmarked to safely return Sunita and Barry in February 2025.
What began as an 8-day mission has turned into an 8-month odyssey. The world watches in anticipation, as Sunita and Barry’s unwavering resolve transforms this ordeal into a powerful testament to human endurance in space exploration.