NASA is collaborating with Elon Musk's SpaceX to arrange a plan for returning two astronauts to Earth if they are unable to return aboard the problematic Boeing spacecraft that initially transported them to space.
NASA announced the contingency plan on Wednesday, revealing that astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams might come back to Earth around February 2025 on SpaceX's Crew-9 mission. This mission is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station in September.
The agency indicated it will need to make a final decision by mid-August on whether to use the Boeing spacecraft for their return. The decision may be made by NASA’s Associate Administrator Jim Free or the agency’s top official, Bill Nelson.
Wilmore and Williams have been aboard the International Space Station since June 6, following the launch of Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft on its inaugural crewed flight. Initially, the astronauts were to remain at the station for about a week, but they have now been in orbit for two months.
If NASA opts to use SpaceX for the return, the Starliner would return empty before Crew-9's launch.
“Our chances of an uncrewed Starliner return have increased slightly based on recent developments,” said Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator for space operations, during a press conference. “That’s why we’re considering this option more carefully to ensure it’s manageable.”
The Starliner has faced several technical problems, including helium leaks and malfunctioning thrusters during its docking attempts with the space station. NASA is assessing whether Starliner can safely bring Wilmore and Williams home despite these issues.
Boeing expressed confidence in Starliner's capabilities following NASA’s announcement. “If NASA decides to alter the mission, we will take the necessary steps to configure Starliner for an uncrewed return,” Boeing stated.
Should SpaceX be tasked with returning Wilmore and Williams, it would represent another setback for the Starliner program, which has struggled with technical issues throughout its development. It would also highlight the growing reliance on SpaceX, which has become a crucial partner in the US space program.
