After a lengthy stay that has severely impacted their personal lives, the returning astronauts will soon hand over responsibilities to four new crew members arriving from Russia, Japan, and the US. A two-day handover period will occur, but potential weather-related delays could extend their wait for re-entry safety. While both astronauts have expressed contentment with their time in space, experts warn of the personal costs incurred from an unexpected extended mission. Their original mission utilizing the Boeing Starliner was riddled with technical delays, leading NASA to opt for a safer return using SpaceX’s Dragon capsule instead, sparking a debate about the implications for Boeing’s reputation. Despite assertions from political figures and SpaceX's CEO, NASA officials emphasize that they made decisions backed by technical considerations and crew safety priorities.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Crew to ISS as Astronauts Prepare for Return

SpaceX Successfully Launches Crew to ISS as Astronauts Prepare for Return
SpaceX's recent rocket launch facilitates the return of stranded astronauts after an extended stay at the International Space Station.
SpaceX has successfully launched a new crew of astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) to facilitate the planned return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been at the ISS for over nine months due to technical issues with their original spacecraft. Initially expected to stay only for eight days, Wilmore and Williams are scheduled to return to Earth two days after the arrival of the newly launched crew. NASA's manager for the commercial crew program expressed joy at the prospect of their safe return.