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| Stranded in Orbit: Awaiting Rescue |
Stranded in Orbit: Awaiting Rescue
Former President Donald Trump has requested that Elon Musk's SpaceX expedite the return of NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS). These astronauts have been aboard the ISS since June 2024, following mechanical issues with their original spacecraft, Boeing's Starliner. Initially planned as a week-long mission, their stay extended due to these complications.
In response to Trump's request, Musk affirmed that SpaceX would undertake the task, expressing criticism of the Biden administration for the prolonged duration of the astronauts' mission.
However, NASA has clarified that the astronauts are not stranded and that a plan has been in place for their return. The agency has been coordinating with SpaceX for months to facilitate their return, with the Dragon spacecraft scheduled to bring them back no earlier than late March. NASA emphasized that bringing the astronauts back sooner would disrupt the delicate balance of ISS staffing and mission coordination.
The situation has garnered significant media attention, with various outlets reporting on the interplay between political figures and space exploration efforts.
Sources:
Reuters - Trump, Musk Suggest Sped-Up Return of NASA Astronauts, but Details Scarce
The Guardian - Trump Asks Musk to Bring Back Two Astronauts 'Stranded' on Space Station
Ars Technica - Why Did Elon Musk Just Say Trump Wants to Bring Two Stranded Astronauts Home?