ISS astronauts on eight-day mission may be stuck until 2025, NASA says

Two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who launched on an eight-day mission aboard Boeing's Starliner capsule in June, may remain on the International Space Station (ISS) until February 2025 due to ongoing issues with the spacecraft's propulsion system. NASA has indicated that if the Starliner is deemed unsafe for their return, the astronauts could be brought back on SpaceX's Crew Dragon. The Starliner has been docked at the ISS for 63 days, with a maximum stay of 90 days, and its return is complicated by the need for Crew Dragon to use the same docking port. Boeing has acknowledged problems with the Starliner, including thruster malfunctions and helium leaks, but maintains confidence in the spacecraft's eventual safe return. The situation has raised concerns within NASA regarding the reliability of Boeing's testing data and the decision-making process surrounding the astronauts' return. The Crew-9 mission, initially set for mid-August, has been delayed, further complicating the timeline for Wilmore and Williams' return. Experts note that encountering issues during test missions is not uncommon, but the stakes are high for Boeing, which is already facing scrutiny over its performance in the aerospace sector.

- NASA astronauts may remain on the ISS until February 2025 due to Starliner issues.

- Boeing's Starliner has experienced propulsion system problems, raising safety concerns.

- NASA is considering using SpaceX's Crew Dragon for the astronauts' return.

- The Crew-9 mission has been delayed, affecting the return timeline.

- Boeing's credibility is at stake amid ongoing scrutiny of its spacecraft development.