NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have returned to Earth after spending nearly 300 days in space. Their mission, which was meant to last just over a week, was extended due to critical malfunctions with their Boeing spacecraft.
The astronauts initially launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule for a test flight to the ISS on June 5, 2024. However, technical failures, including helium leaks and malfunctioning thrusters, led to safety concerns. NASA and Boeing determined the capsule was too risky for their return, and the spacecraft was sent back to Earth empty by September 2024.
During their extended stay, Wilmore and Williams adapted to new roles aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments and spacewalks. Williams even set a record for the most time spent spacewalking by a female astronaut.
