📷 Image Credits: Moneycontrol
NASA’s Starliner spacecraft return has faced further delay, keeping astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally scheduled for a brief postponement to June 26, the return has been postponed further due to technical issues with the spacecraft. This delay allows NASA to thoroughly evaluate technical anomalies, including problems with maneuvering thrusters and a slow-moving propellant valve. The Starliner spacecraft, named Calypso, embarked on its final demonstration flight on June 5 to secure routine flight certification from NASA. The mission encountered challenges post-launch, with maneuvering thrusters failing and helium gas leaks occurring. Despite these setbacks, the crew successfully docked with the ISS and have been contributing to space exploration and research.
Sunita Williams, an Indian-origin American astronaut on her third journey to the ISS, played a significant role in testing the Starliner’s manual piloting capabilities. Fondly known as ‘Suni,’ Williams expressed joy at this mission, considering it a family reunion. The crew is expected to return after a planned spacewalk on July 2, following assessments of safe return windows. As astronauts await their journey back to Earth, they continue to work and live on the ISS, pushing the boundaries of international space missions.
Despite the challenges, Williams brings her cultural heritage to space, often sharing elements of Indian culture like the Bhagavad Gita and samosas with fellow astronauts. Her ongoing mission on the Starliner reflects a blend of technology and tradition, inspiring global audiences and underscoring the importance of international cooperation in space missions. The extended stay aboard the ISS offers both challenges and opportunities for the astronauts, highlighting the resilience and adaptability required for human space exploration. As they navigate technical issues and delays, the crew’s journey on the Starliner serves as a testament to human ingenuity and determination in navigating the challenges of space travel.
