• NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return from the ISS aboard a SpaceX Crew-9 capsule.
• Their return has faced delays due to issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, leading to an extended stay in space.
• SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump have publicly commented on the situation, with Musk alleging that the astronauts were "stranded."
• In an interview, Williams and Wilmore emphasized their focus on ongoing scientific experiments rather than their delayed homecoming.
• The astronauts are expected to return no earlier than March following the Crew-10 launch.

NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are preparing for their return to Earth after unexpectedly extending their stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Initially launched in June 2024 as part of Boeing's Starliner mission, their return has been delayed multiple times due to technical issues with the Starliner vehicle, ultimately leading to plans for their rescue via SpaceX's Crew-9 capsule.

The situation has captured widespread media attention, with former President Trump and Elon Musk commenting on the astronauts' extended orbital stay, with Musk stating that the Biden administration left them "stranded." However, both Williams and Wilmore have downplayed concerns about their situation during a recent interview, stating, "We try to focus on the now, what’s taking place here, the important work that's going on." They maintained that their training has prepared them for lengthy missions, adapting to the unique environment of space despite its challenges.

NASA had previously decided it was too risky for the astronauts to return via the Starliner spacecraft following reports of systemic issues including helium leaks and propulsion failures. Instead, plans were made for their return aboard the SpaceX capsule, which is currently docked at the ISS, but they will only be able to leave after the arrival of the upcoming Crew-10 mission.

While the astronauts await their journey home, they have been conducting essential scientific research and participating in spacewalks. For instance, Williams and Wilmore recently undertook a spacewalk to perform maintenance tasks and collect samples for the ISS External Microorganisms experiment, contributing to ongoing studies that could have broader implications for future space travel, including missions to the Moon and Mars through NASA's Artemis initiative.

The astronauts emphasized that their time on the ISS has allowed them to focus on science and collaboration with their international colleagues, highlighting that relations among the crew members transcend geopolitical tensions. Williams noted, "The boundaries of countries sort of just melt away when you’re around the dinner table,” reflecting the unity fostered by their shared mission.

With plans for a March return now in motion, both astronauts remain committed to their work aboard the ISS, ensuring that they continue to make valuable contributions to space science and exploration.

For further details, please refer to the original reports from India Times, CNN, and USA Today.