NASA Astronauts Face Extended Stay in Space

NASA is nearing a decision on the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who have been stranded on the International Space Station since June due to technical problems with Boeing's Starliner capsule. Originally planned for an eight-day mission, their stay has now extended to nearly 70 days as engineers work to resolve issues with the spacecraft's propulsion system. NASA is weighing the possibility of returning the Starliner empty while Wilmore and Williams remain in space until February, when they could return on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. Boeing has expressed confidence in the Starliner's ability to return safely, although some thrusters have failed and a leak was detected prior to launch. A final decision is expected by the end of next week, as NASA aims to address the astronauts' prolonged mission status. Meanwhile, the astronauts are reportedly managing well and remain engaged in their work aboard the station.