Following the uncrewed return of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, questions have emerged about the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who were originally set to fly back on this capsule. Instead, they will now return in February 2025 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.
No Immediate Urgency
Despite initial concerns, NASA has clarified that there is no immediate need to send a rescue mission for Wilmore and Williams. Currently, they are safe on the International Space Station (ISS), which is well-equipped and regularly resupplied.
Typical Mission Duration
Astronauts on the ISS typically spend about six months in space. Wilmore and Williams’ extended stay is not unusual, as they will return alongside two other astronauts nearing the end of their six-month mission. The next Crew Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to launch on September 24, bringing a new crew to the ISS.
Lifeboats and Emergency Preparedness
The ISS is equipped with several spacecraft that act as “lifeboats” for emergencies. Currently, the following spacecraft are docked at the ISS:
- SpaceX Dragon Endeavour (Crew-8 mission)
- Northrop Grumman resupply ship
- Soyuz MS-25 crew shipProgress 88 and 89 resupply ships
The upcoming Crew Dragon spacecraft will likely serve as the return vehicle for Wilmore and Williams. The ISS has robust emergency protocols, with astronauts trained to handle various situations. Past emergencies, such as near-misses with space debris and a fire on the Mir space station, underline the importance of these preparations.
Planned Return
Wilmore and Williams are not in danger but will return to Earth as planned with the next Crew Dragon mission in February 2025. Their extended stay is part of the regular mission schedule, ensuring their safe return with the next crew rotation.