NASA makes room on SpaceX trip to return astronauts stuck in orbit

NASA has adjusted its upcoming SpaceX mission to accommodate two astronauts currently stranded on the International Space Station (ISS). Astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will launch aboard a SpaceX rocket in September, while Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore will return to Earth in February. This decision was made due to concerns over the Boeing Starliner capsule, which has experienced thruster issues and helium leaks, making it too risky for Williams and Wilmore to use for their return. As a result, NASA has removed astronauts Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson from the SpaceX flight, with plans for them to participate in future missions. The agency emphasized that the decision was based on various factors, including the astronauts' spaceflight experience. Since the retirement of the Space Shuttle, NASA has relied on partnerships with Russia and private companies like SpaceX to transport astronauts to and from the ISS. The Boeing Starliner capsule, which was intended to bring Williams and Wilmore back, is expected to return empty soon, with a landing planned in the New Mexico desert.

- NASA has made room for stranded astronauts on an upcoming SpaceX mission.

- Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov will launch in September, while Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore will return in February.

- Boeing Starliner capsule issues prompted the change in plans.

- Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson have been reassigned to future missions.

- NASA continues to rely on partnerships with private companies and Russia for crew transport to the ISS.