Sunita Williams's return from space has been delayed. The Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which she piloted alongside astronaut Butch Wilmore, remains docked at the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA and Boeing are evaluating the Starliner’s propulsion system and addressing minor helium leaks discovered during its stay at the ISS.
Additional ground tests at the White Sands Test Facility are planned to ensure the spacecraft’s readiness for a safe return to Earth
The return was initially planned for late June, but due to ongoing assessments and planned spacewalks at the ISS, the mission teams decided to delay the undocking.
This delay allows for a thorough review of propulsion system data and completion of necessary tasks while the spacecraft is docked
NASA and Boeing are working closely to finalize the timeline for the spacecraft’s undocking and safe return