In a delayed launch on Thursday evening, a SpaceX capsule will carry four astronauts to the International Space Station, clearing the way for two “stranded” astronauts to finally return to Earth. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were supposed to return last June but remained on the ISS due to a malfunctioning Boeing capsule. Former President Trump and Elon Musk have claimed that they were left in space for political reasons, while NASA officials cited technical and budgetary concerns as reasons for the extended stay.
The current launch is not a rescue mission, but a new crew for the ISS. The Dragon capsule that will bring back Wilmore and Williams has been attached to the station since September. Despite claims of a political motive, former astronauts and NASA officials have refuted the theory. Musk and Trump have reiterated the claim through social media, leading to a public dispute with former astronauts and NASA officials.
Current NASA officials have stated that technical reasons, cost, and safety were the primary factors in the astronauts’ extended stay. Custom-fitted seats were installed on the Dragon capsule for a safe return. Williams and Wilmore have been conducting experiments and spacewalks during their time on the ISS. Despite the delay in their return, they have adapted well to life in space. Former astronaut Scott Kelly believes they are professionals who have been handling the situation fine. The astronauts anticipate their return to Earth, bringing an end to their unexpected extended stay in space.
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