NASA Astronauts to Return on SpaceX Craft Amid Boeing Starliner Issues

Due to significant propulsion system issues with Boeing's Starliner capsule, two NASA astronauts currently at the International Space Station will return to Earth aboard a SpaceX vehicle. Originally intended for an eight-day mission, the astronauts' journey has been delayed and complicated by thruster failures and helium leaks, leading NASA to make this critical decision.

NASA has announced that two astronauts, currently at the International Space Station, will return to Earth aboard a SpaceX vehicle due to persistent issues with Boeing's Starliner capsule's propulsion system. NASA chief, Bill Nelson, highlighted the risks associated with Starliner, making this decision one of the agency's most consequential in years.

Veteran astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams embarked on the Starliner mission in June, expecting an eight-day test flight. However, the mission faced significant setbacks including thruster failures and helium leaks within the first 24 hours, leading to months of delays and a reshuffling of NASA's astronaut operations.

The astronauts are now scheduled to return in February 2025 on a SpaceX Crew Dragon, with two seats reserved for them. NASA and Boeing remain focused on safety, despite ongoing challenges with Starliner, which will attempt an autonomous return to Earth. The Starliner program's future remains uncertain, adding to the list of issues for Boeing's new CEO Kelly Ortberg.

(With inputs from agencies.)