NASA Considers Keeping Astronauts Stuck on Space Station Aboard Boeing Capsule
Sub-headline: Agency Weighs Extending Mission Due to Technical Issues
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NASA is weighing the possibility of keeping two astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) longer than planned due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner capsule. The capsule, which conducted a test flight to the ISS in May, has experienced delays in its return to Earth.
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NASA officials said Wednesday that astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who were delivered to the ISS by the Starliner, may need to remain in orbit until the next crewed SpaceX flight to the station. The issue stems from a problem with the capsule's propulsion system, which could potentially impact its ability to return to Earth safely.
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NASA hired Boeing and SpaceX to ferry astronauts to and from the space station after the retirement of the space shuttle program in 2011. However, technical problems with both companies' capsules have delayed the agency's efforts to establish a reliable human spaceflight system.
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The extended stay of the two astronauts on the ISS could have implications for NASA's future plans. The agency is currently preparing for a return to the Moon and eventually to Mars, and a prolonged stay in orbit could put those missions at risk.
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NASA is monitoring the situation closely and will make a decision on whether or not to keep Wilmore and Williams in orbit based on the latest technical and safety assessments. The agency is also working with Boeing to address the propulsion issue and ensure a safe return for the astronauts.
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