Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft on June 5, 2024, for what was supposed to be a 10-day mission. However, post-docking inspections at the ISS revealed propulsion system malfunctions, including thruster failures and helium leaks.
Key Issues with Boeing’s Starliner:
- Thruster Malfunctions – Some thrusters did not fire properly during tests.
- Helium Leaks – Also Crucial for pressurizing the propulsion system, these leaks posed a safety risk.
- Software and Navigation Errors – However, Starliner had past software glitches, raising concerns about its reliability.
Due to these issues, NASA delayed the return of Williams and Wilmore indefinitely, ensuring Starliner’s problems could be addressed before bringing them back to Earth safely.
Timeline: Sunita Williams’ Extended Stay in Space
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 5, 2024 | Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore launch aboard Boeing’s Starliner for a 10-day mission. |
| June 15, 2024 | NASA postpones their return due to Starliner’s propulsion system issues. |
| July 2024 – Feb 2025 | Engineers at NASA and Boeing work to fix Starliner’s technical problems. |
| March 13, 2025 | SpaceX Crew-10 mission launches, bringing a new team to replace Williams and Wilmore. |
| March 16, 2025 | Crew-10 successfully docks with the ISS. |
| March 19, 2025 | Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are scheduled to return aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. |
Health Challenges of Sunita Williams’ Prolonged Space Stay
Living in microgravity for months poses serious health risks for astronauts. Since Williams has spent much longer in space than planned, she will face the following challenges upon return:
- Bone Density Loss – Astronauts lose 1% of bone mass per month, increasing fracture risks.
- Muscle Atrophy – Lack of gravitational resistance weakens muscles.
- Vision Changes – Fluid shifts in space increase intracranial pressure, affecting eyesight.
- Sleep Disorders – Circadian rhythm disruptions lead to fatigue and cognitive issues.
Williams and Wilmore will undergo extensive rehabilitation after landing to help their bodies readjust to Earth’s gravity.
When Will Sunita Williams Return to Earth?
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are set to return on March 19, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft. Once back, they will undergo medical evaluations and participate in debriefing sessions about the Starliner mission failure.