Stranded in space: Why NASA astronauts are facing a 10-month ISS stay

Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who embarked on what they initially thought was an eight-day mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner, are now expected to remain aboard the International Space Station (ISS) until at least late March 2025, turning the eight-day mission into a ten-month stay after the recent delay. Let’s take a look at what’s causing the delays,

Mission extension and challenges

The extended mission stems from technical issues with the Starliner capsule, including thruster malfunctions and helium leaks, which rendered it unsafe for the astronauts’ return. As a result, the Starliner returned to Earth unmanned in September 2024, leaving the astronauts stranded on the ISS and forcing NASA to coordinate alternative plans for the astronauts’ return.

NASA has since turned to SpaceX for assistance. The company had expected to be able to return the astronauts in February. However, it now appears that the mission will not be able to take place until the end of March.

Reasons for the additional delay

Unfortunately, SpaceX will need more time to prepare their new capsule for liftoff than they initially thought, so they pushed back the mission to the end of March.

The stranded astronauts will also need to update their replacements in what NASA calls a “handover period.” This period helps the transition move smoothly to ensure there is no risk to ongoing science and maintenance, and they must complete it before they can finally return home.

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Health considerations for long-term space missions

Prolonged stays in microgravity environments pose unique challenges to human health. Muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and fluid redistribution are well-documented risks of long-duration space missions. To mitigate these effects, astronauts adhere to strict exercise regimens, consume a balanced diet, and benefit from regular psychological support.

Fortunately, historical data from previous long-term missions suggest that most health issues encountered in space are reversible upon returning to Earth’s gravity, allowing astronauts to return to full health, even after extended stays.

Astronauts’ perspective and adaptation

Wilmore and Williams have positive attitudes about their extended stay in space. Wilmore expressed gratitude for the contingency measures that ensure their safety, while Williams, who has previously endured long-duration spaceflights, described the ISS as her “happy place.”

Despite the challenges, this extended mission will help provide NASA with invaluable data on the effects of long-term human spaceflight. It also shows how unpredictable space flight can be and underscores the courage and resilience of the astronauts who take on these missions.

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