NASA Astronauts to Return on SpaceX Vehicle Amid Starliner Concerns

Two NASA astronauts who initially flew to the International Space Station on Boeing's Starliner capsule will return to Earth on a SpaceX vehicle due to issues with Starliner's propulsion system. NASA's decision, which involved significant risks, aims to ensure the safety of the crew and spacecraft.

NASA officials announced that two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, will return from the International Space Station on a SpaceX vehicle due to reliability concerns about Boeing's Starliner capsule. The decision comes after Starliner's propulsion system experienced multiple glitches, delaying the astronauts' eight-day test mission by several months.

Wilmore and Williams, who were the first crew to ride Starliner in June, will conduct additional scientific experiments during their extended stay on the ISS. NASA plans for the astronauts to return in February 2025 on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft that will launch next month.

Boeing's Starliner, which suffered from thruster failures and helium leaks, will attempt an autonomous return to Earth in September. NASA's choice to use Crew Dragon underscores ongoing safety concerns and highlights the uncertainty of Starliner's future missions.

(With inputs from agencies.)