The delay in the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore is looking to extend further as reports are suggesting that Starliner’s latest targeted return date is 6th of July. The mission which was originally planned for eight days, would now last a month. Moreover, media reports have made serious allegations that NASA and Boeing were aware of a helium leak on the Starliner spacecraft prior to its launch on 5th of June. However, despite this, they proceeded with the launch. The return of Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams was earlier scheduled on 13th June, then on 26th June, but the return got canceled every time.
Now, no new date for her return has been disclosed by NASA. The space agency had extended Ms. Williams’ stay on the space station after five helium leaks were detected on the Starliner spacecraft and five of its 28 thrusters faced issues. At least 14 thrusters are needed for a safe return.
Disclaimer: This press release is sourced from News On AIR, Prasar Bharti and Press Information Bureau India (PIB).
