Cards on the Table: Are Butch and Suni Coming Home on Starliner or Crew Dragon?

NASA is set to make a crucial decision regarding the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS) this weekend. The astronauts, who have been in space for 11 weeks, were initially scheduled for an eight-day mission but have remained due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. During Starliner's flight, five of its 28 thrusters failed, prompting extensive testing and data analysis to understand the problem. NASA will decide whether to send Wilmore and Williams back on Starliner, potentially as early as September 2, or on a Crew Dragon vehicle scheduled for September 24. If they return on Crew Dragon, it would involve a modified "Crew-9" mission with fewer astronauts. Both astronauts are reportedly accepting of the situation, understanding the nature of test flights and the potential for extended stays in space. The decision is complicated by safety concerns and the implications for Boeing, which has already faced significant financial losses related to the Starliner program. NASA aims to ensure the safe return of its astronauts while also considering the impact on its partnerships with commercial spaceflight providers.

- NASA will decide the return method for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams this weekend.

- The astronauts have been in space for 11 weeks due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.

- They may return on Starliner or a Crew Dragon vehicle, with the latter option involving a modified mission.

- Both astronauts are reportedly accepting of their extended stay in space.

- The decision has significant implications for Boeing and NASA's commercial partnerships.