Can India Help in Bringing Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Back From Space? ISRO Chief S Somanath Says This
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are currently awaiting their return from space as NASA officials work to address anomalies detected in Boeing's Starliner spacecraft during its launch.
New Delhi, August 24: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are currently awaiting their return from space as NASA officials work to address anomalies detected in Boeing's Starliner spacecraft during its launch. The two astronauts, who have been aboard the International Space Station (ISS) since June, were originally scheduled to return shortly after their arrival. However, concerns over Starliner’s safety have delayed their return.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other top officials will meet on Saturday to determine the return date or timeline for astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, currently stranded aboard the ISS. NASA Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Fate Uncertain As Return From ISS May Be Delayed Until February 2025.
ISRO’s Role Limited, Says Chief S Somanath
ISRO Chief S Somanath, in a podcast with BeerBiceps, confirmed that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) cannot directly assist in the astronauts’ return due to a lack of the necessary spacecraft. He emphasised that only the US and Russia possess the capabilities to conduct such a mission. Somanath highlighted that NASA’s Crew Dragon and Russia’s Soyuz are the only viable options to safely bring back Williams and Wilmore. Sunita Williams, Barry Wilmore Stuck in Space: Is Boeing's New Capsule Safe Enough to Fly 2 Astronauts Back From International Space Station? NASA to Take Call on August 24.
Starliner’s Troubles
The Boeing Starliner has faced several technical issues since its launch on June 5, including leaks in propulsion-related plumbing and the failure of multiple thrusters. Despite these problems, Boeing and NASA decided to proceed with the mission. However, the issues that have emerged since then have prompted NASA to consider alternative options for the astronauts' safe return.
NASA’s Decision Pending
NASA is set to decide on August 24 whether Starliner is safe enough to bring the astronauts back to Earth. If deemed unsafe, the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft could be used, though this would delay the return until February 2025. Meanwhile, the astronauts remain in good condition as NASA continues to evaluate the situation.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 24, 2024 05:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).