Stranded in space, Sunita Williams shares experiences of extended stay
14 Sep 2024

Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, currently stationed at the International Space Station (ISS), said it's been tough dealing with their Boeing spacecraft leaving without them, and the prospect of spending several extra months in space.

The duo was left behind when their Boeing Starliner capsule returned to Earth last week, due to safety concerns raised by NASA.

Initially planned as an eight-day mission, their stay is now expected to last over eight months.

Mixed feelings about extended mission
Emotional impact

Wilmore expressed his feelings about the unexpected turn of events from 420km above Earth.

"It was trying at times. There were some tough times all the way through," he said.

Despite their initial surprise, both astronauts acknowledged the potential for complications as part of their roles as Starliner's first test pilots.

"That's how things go in this business," Williams added, accepting the unpredictability of space missions.

Transition to full-time ISS crew members
New roles

Wilmore and Williams have now become full-time ISS crew members, contributing to routine maintenance and experiments.

Wilmore revealed during a news conference that Williams is set to assume command of the space station in a few weeks.

The duo also welcomed a Soyuz spacecraft carrying two Russians and an American this week, temporarily increasing the station's population to 12.

Gratitude for support from Earth
Emotional support

The astronauts expressed their appreciation for the prayers and well wishes they have received from people on Earth. This support has helped them cope with missing out on life back home.

Williams expressed concern about missing valuable time with her mother, while Wilmore regretted not being present for his youngest daughter's final year of high school.

Despite these challenges, both astronauts emphasized the importance of fulfilling their civic duties during their extended mission.

Astronauts prepare for return journey on different spacecraft
Return plan

Two more astronauts are scheduled to join the ISS on a SpaceX mission later this month.

The spacecraft will have two empty seats reserved for Wilmore and Williams for their return journey.

Despite the unexpected change in plans, Williams expressed excitement about flying two different spacecraft during the same mission.

"We're testers, that's what we do," she said, emphasizing their role in space exploration.