A NASA-SpaceX mission designed to facilitate the return of two “stranded” astronauts to Earth has been delayed.
The Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida has been postponed due to a hydraulic ground issue. Another potential launch opportunity has emerged for Thursday.
A rocket was launched to transport four new crew members to the International Space Station (ISS) while also setting the stage for the return of astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore.
In June, two NASA astronauts embarked on a journey to space, but their return aboard a Boeing spacecraft was thwarted due to safety concerns surrounding the vehicle. The duo is expected to return to Earth within days following the SpaceX mission’s arrival at the International Space Station.
NASA astronauts departed from Earth on June 5, 2024, for an eight-day mission but have since remained at the International Space Station for over nine months, contributing to ongoing operations through maintenance and experiments.
The launch scheduled for Wednesday could have enabled their return to Earth as soon as Sunday.
SpaceX reported that the launch was postponed due to a problem with the hydraulics on one of the clamp arms, which engineers are currently addressing. Concerns arose regarding the arm’s ability to open during the launch fully.
The company announced that Friday’s launch window is scheduled for 1903 Eastern Time (2303 GMT).
During a September news conference from the International Space Station, Ms. Williams, 58, and Mr. Wilmore, 61, addressed their unusual circumstances with a sense of composure, stating they had been prepared to “expect the unexpected.”
“This is my happy place,” Ms. Williams remarked, although she longed for her family and two dogs.
Mr. Wilmore expressed concerns regarding the Starliner spacecraft they arrived on, stating that it did not provide a sense of “comfort” for their return home.
He noted, however, that 90% of their training focused on “preparing for the unexpected”.
He said they would remain there for “eight months, nine months, 10 months” if required.
Ms. Williams expressed that her experiences in space have led her to reflect more deeply on Earth.
“It encourages a shift in perspective,” she explained. “This is the only planet we possess, and it is imperative that we prioritise its care.”
