Stranded astronauts' capsule heads home without them

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft has begun its return journey to Earth without the astronauts it was meant to carry, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who will remain on the International Space Station (ISS) until February 2025. The Starliner, which encountered technical issues after its launch on June 5, was deemed unsafe for the astronauts' return. Instead, they will be brought back by a SpaceX Crew Dragon, extending their stay on the ISS from eight days to eight months. The Starliner's flight back will take approximately six hours, landing at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico. NASA officials noted that the astronauts are in good spirits and have adapted well to their extended mission, receiving necessary supplies and equipment for their stay. The decision to use SpaceX for the astronauts' return followed months of technical difficulties with the Starliner, including propulsion system leaks and thruster malfunctions. This mission marks Boeing's first crewed flight attempt, which has faced multiple delays and setbacks. NASA remains committed to Boeing's spacecraft, emphasizing the importance of having multiple American companies capable of transporting astronauts to space.

- Boeing's Starliner spacecraft returned to Earth without its astronauts due to safety concerns.

- Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will remain on the ISS until February 2025.

- The astronauts will be returned by SpaceX's Crew Dragon instead.

- The Starliner faced significant technical issues during its mission.

- NASA continues to support Boeing's efforts to certify the Starliner for future crewed flights.