Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
ISRO chief S Somanath reassured that the delayed return of Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams from the International Space Station (ISS) is not a cause for concern, emphasizing that the ISS is a safe environment for long-term stays.
In an interview with NDTV, Somanath explained that the delay is due to testing Boeing’s new crew module, the Starliner. He highlighted the importance of ensuring the module’s ability to go to space and return safely.
Somanath stated that there are sufficient capabilities with ground launch providers to bring the astronauts home and reiterated that the delay is not specific to Williams but related to the Starliner’s testing.
Williams and NASA astronaut Barry Wilmore were scheduled to return on June 13, but their return has been postponed due to mechanical issues with the Starliner spacecraft. Currently, no new return date has been set.
Somanath praised Williams for her bravery in testing a new space vehicle and emphasized the mission’s importance. He highlighted her role in the design team and the use of her experience to improve the module.
NASA’s Commercial Crew Program manager, Steve Stich, mentioned that the agency is considering extending the Starliner’s mission duration from 45 to 90 days. This extension will allow further ground tests in New Mexico to investigate the thruster failures.
The Expedition 71 crew members have been busy with various activities, including packing a US cargo craft, cleaning the ISS, studying futuristic piloting techniques, and conducting eye exams.
This mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, aimed at certifying Boeing’s Starliner for routine missions to and from the ISS. The astronauts launched on June 5 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida as part of a final demonstration to obtain routine flight certification.