Two NASA astronauts, Sunita Williams and Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore, have been aboard the International Space Station (ISS) for over nine months—far exceeding their initially scheduled weeklong mission. Originally launched in June aboard Boeing’s new Starliner capsule, the astronauts’ return was delayed due to technical difficulties with the spacecraft. Despite the prolonged stay, both astronauts remained positive and actively engaged in crucial scientific and maintenance activities on the ISS.

As told to CBS News, Williams assured, “I don’t think I’m abandoned. I don’t think we’re stuck up here. We’ve got food. We’ve got clothes. We have a ride home in case anything really bad does happen to the International Space Station.” Their extended presence on the ISS has ensured that the station remains fully manned, enabling continuous scientific research and experiments.

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore’s one-week Starliner Mission stretched to 10 months

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore were part of a test mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule, designed to evaluate the spacecraft’s performance and capabilities. The mission, launched last June, was originally planned to last just one week. However, unforeseen technical issues with the Starliner capsule disrupted these plans, necessitating an indefinite extension of their stay. NASA made the decision to return the Starliner to Earth for further inspection and troubleshooting, leaving Williams and Wilmore aboard the ISS.

Starliner malfunctions and SpaceX delays extend Sunita Williams’ ISS stay to 10 months

The primary cause of the mission extension stemmed from malfunctions within the Starliner capsule. NASA’s efforts to address these issues required sending the spacecraft back to Earth without the astronauts. Compounding the delay, SpaceX postponed the launch of the astronauts’ replacements, further extending Williams and Wilmore’s stay on the ISS. As a result, the astronauts remained on board until late March or early April—nearly ten months after their initial departure.

Sunita Williams completes eighth spacewalk amid extended ISS mission

Despite the unexpected extension, Williams and Wilmore maintained their commitment to the mission’s objectives. Williams, in particular, performed her first spacewalk since arriving at the ISS, contributing to critical repairs alongside fellow astronaut Nick Hague. This marked her eighth spacewalk, highlighting her extensive experience in extravehicular activities. During the spacewalk, Williams completed overdue maintenance tasks while floating just a few feet from the parked SpaceX capsule slated to bring her and Wilmore back to Earth. Her successful completion of these tasks ensured the continued functionality and safety of the ISS.

Sunita Williams set for another spacewalk after NASA greenlights missions

NASA had temporarily paused U.S. spacewalks last summer following a water leakage incident involving an astronaut’s suit cooling loop. After addressing and resolving the issue, the agency resumed extravehicular activities, allowing astronauts like Williams to continue essential maintenance work. Williams is also scheduled to conduct another spacewalk with Wilmore in the coming weeks, further underscoring their active roles during this extended mission.

Sunita Williams remains positive as extended space mission nears end

Throughout their prolonged mission, both astronauts remained optimistic and dedicated. Williams expressed gratitude for being part of the team, stating, “We’re in a posture where we have the International Space Station fully manned and doing what the taxpayers wanted—to do world-class science. And so I feel honoured to be here and a part of the team.” As their replacements’ launch draws near, the astronauts are preparing for their return journey aboard the SpaceX capsule.