The 2 NASA astronauts in the image to the right were stranded in space for 6 months. In early June 2024, the 2 astronauts took off on the Starliner to test a new shuttle and to dock it on the International Space Station (ISS). They had no problem docking on the ISS, but had issues trying to return. Helium leaks and faulty thrusters on the Starliner made it unsafe to return home, so the 2 astronauts were stranded. The test flight was supposed to last about 10 days, but it was quickly predicted to last about 6 months. The 2 astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have faced many problems while on the Starliner like supplies.
Supplies like food played a critical role, as they only packed enough for the 10-day duration, because they were only intended to be on the Starliner for that amount of time. They were even unable to bring their own suitcases, because NASA had to lose weight inside the shuttle last-minute. Additionally, they were borrowing clothes from other astronauts as a result of not bringing a suitcase with their needed belongings. Also, they were forced to recycle urine, sweat, and other moisture into water, and then into oxygen with a machine equipped on the ISS.
The astronauts will try and get back home either on the Starliner or on a SpaceX shuttle, Dragon Craft, or Endurance. Ultimately, NASA chose to bring the 2 astronauts home on Endurance. The capsule was launched in September of 2024, and is set to return with the astronauts in March. The possibility of returning on the Starliner is controversial among NASA and Boeing engineers. They are worried that the helium leaks and engine thrust problems in the Starliner could obviously pose serious risks.
The thrusts are obviously needed to safely get back home, but they are also needed to steer the Starliner in the direction of the home. Regarding this information, NASA’s decision has clearly been justified. However, Endurance is intended to be used by 4 astronauts, so even the trip on Endurance will be slightly risky, given the circumstances. However, even after all of this conflict, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have been displaying a positive attitude throughout the entire duration of being stuck. The problems on the Starliner are definitely questionable, which has me questioning the engineering of the Starliner.
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