• A launch pad issue has delayed SpaceX's Crew-10 mission intended to retrieve two stranded NASA astronauts.
• NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been stuck on the ISS for nine months.
• The next launch attempt could be as soon as Friday, pending resolution of hydraulic system concerns.

A significant launch pad issue prompted NASA and SpaceX to delay the highly anticipated Crew-10 mission, aimed at retrieving astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS). The delay, announced less than an hour before the scheduled liftoff, will keep the two astronauts in orbit at least another day or two after spending nine months in space.

The problem arose from concerns about a critical hydraulic system involving the ground support equipment necessary for the Falcon 9 rocket's launch. According to Reuters, launch teams had evaluated the hydraulics of the arms clamping the rocket to its support structure, which are essential for tilt-back just before liftoff. Engineers concluded that additional work was required, leading to the launch cancellation.

The Crew-10 mission crew had already strapped into their capsule, eagerly awaiting the go-ahead when the call to cancel was made. Wilmore and Williams, originally part of the first crewed flight of Boeing’s Starliner in June last year, were not expected to be away from home for so long. Their initial mission was planned for just a week but extended due to technical issues that prevented a safe return on the Starliner. Via HuffPost, it was noted that NASA ordered Starliner to return empty, transferring Wilmore and Williams to SpaceX for their eventual return trip.

SpaceX has not yet confirmed a new date, although they mentioned that attempts to rectify the hydraulic system could see the launch rescheduled as early as this Friday, March 15th. Until then, NASA and the team at SpaceX will continue to address the hydraulic concerns as they ensure the safety of the astronauts in their upcoming journey. More information on the situation can be found in detail at VOA News.