Astronomy

A NASA astronaut, stranded in space for over seven months, has been likened to an "indentured servant" as she steps out of the ISS for the first time.

January, 18, 2025-01:52

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A NASA astronaut, stranded in space for over seven months, has been likened to an "indentured servant" as she steps out of the ISS for the first time.

A NASA astronaut, stranded in space for over seven months, has been likened to an "indentured servant" as she steps out of the ISS for the first time.

NASA astronaut Suni Williams, who has been stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) since June last year, recently stepped outside the station for the first time in more than seven months. The moment came during a six-hour spacewalk, conducted alongside NASA astronaut Nick Hague, to perform repair work on the station's exterior.

Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore had originally planned an eight-day mission after arriving in Boeing's Starliner capsule. However, persistent technical issues, including engine failures and helium leaks, rendered the spacecraft unsafe for their return journey. This unexpected predicament left the two astronauts confined to the ISS, transforming their brief mission into a prolonged stay.

Williams’ brief respite outside the station drew significant attention on social media, with many expressing shock and concern upon realizing she was still stranded in space. One outraged commenter referred to the astronauts as “indentured servants,” highlighting the frustration shared by space enthusiasts and the public.

Initially scheduled to return to Earth in February 2024, ongoing delays have pushed their return date back to at least March. The situation underscores the challenges and risks associated with space exploration, particularly when relying on experimental spacecraft. Despite the circumstances, Williams and Wilmore have continued their duties, contributing to the station’s maintenance and research operations while awaiting resolution of the technical issues with the Star liner capsule.

NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are likely to remain on the International Space Station (ISS) until at least March or April following the failure of Boeing’s Star liner capsule, a situation that has extended their planned eight-day mission to nearly a year. The astronauts, who took off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5, 2024, were originally tasked with testing Boeing's Star liner capsule on a short mission that included atmospheric reentry maneuvers, docking with the ISS, and a return to Earth.

However, technical issues arose almost immediately, with the capsule experiencing thruster malfunctions and a helium leak. These problems rendered the spacecraft unsuitable for a crewed return. Ultimately, NASA decided to send Star liner back to Earth unmanned in September 2024, landing safely in New Mexico with the assistance of parachutes. This left the astronauts stranded on the ISS, awaiting a resolution to the Star liner’s deficiencies or an alternative means of returning to Earth.

This delay has now extended their stay on the ISS to nearly 10 months. Despite the challenging circumstances, Williams and Wilmore have adapted to the extended mission, continuing their work in research and maintenance aboard the station. For Williams, a recent spacewalk provided a much-needed break from the station’s confined quarters. Accompanied by NASA astronaut Nick Hague, she participated in a six-hour extravehicular activity to perform essential repairs, marking her first excursion outside the ISS since her arrival.

The situation has drawn significant attention and concern on social media, with many expressing shock and frustration at the delay in their return. Comments ranged from disappointment in the handling of the Star liner mission to criticism of the astronauts’ prolonged stay in space. The situation underscores the complexities and risks of space exploration, particularly when experimental technology is involved.
While NASA and Boeing work on addressing the Star liner’s issues, Williams and Wilmore continue to embody resilience and professionalism, awaiting a resolution that will safely bring them back to Earth.



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