NASA May Extend Astronauts' ISS Stay

NASA is currently deliberating whether to keep astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams at the International Space Station (ISS) until early next year, instead of returning them on Boeing's troubled Starliner capsule, which has experienced thruster failures and helium leaks. If they opt to send the Starliner back empty, the astronauts would ride on SpaceX’s next flight, extending their stay at the ISS until February. NASA officials plan to make a decision by the end of next week, as the thrusters are essential for safe descent from orbit. The switch to SpaceX would displace two astronauts from the upcoming flight, as there are limited docking spots at the ISS. The current crew aboard the ISS is facing an extended mission due to the uncertainty surrounding Starliner, which has added an additional month to their stay. Most missions typically last around six months, although some can extend up to a year.