Stranded Astronauts: NASA to Decide on Return by Next Week
The Facts
NASA may decide next week if Boeing's Starliner capsule can bring back astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams from the International Space Station (ISS).
Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for the space ops mission directorate, said Wednesday that NASA has "time available" and wants to "use that time wisely.”
The Spin
NASA is facing a serious crisis with the Boeing Starliner, a spacecraft plagued by numerous malfunctions. Combined with SpaceX's recent Falcon 9 failures, it has badly dented NASA's reputation. With limited alternatives and no quick fixes in sight, NASA must navigate a precarious situation that could jeopardize its long-term access to low Earth orbit.
NASA Starliner crisis is not as dire as it is made out to be. The astronauts are safe abord ISS, with ample supplies and work to do. NASA has backup plans, including using SpaceX’s Dragon for their return, if necessary. While Starliner’s issues are concerning, NASA’s dual-provider strategy ensures that missions can continue, even with setbacks.
