NASA to give update on Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore’s return today: How to watch it live | Technology News
With Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore stuck in space for over two months, the world is awaiting an official confirmation about their return to Earth. The duo, who were part of the first crewed Starliner mission by Boeing, were meant to be in space for eight days. However, now they are closing in on the 80-day mark.
Today, August 24, leaders from Nasa are expected to announce a crucial update related to the safe return of the astronauts. Nasa in its announcement is expected to share its plan of action on the safe return of the Starliner’s crew to Earth.
The press conference by Nasa is scheduled for 1 pm EDT, which is 10:30 pm IST. The conference will include Nasa Administrator Bill Nelson and other leaders who are currently deliberating on the return of Boeing Starliner.
What happened to Starliner?
Boeing’s Starliner marked a massive leap for private players in the US. Williams and Wilmore were launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 5 for a sojourn lasting eight days. However, owing to helium leaks and failures of multiple thrusters on the spacecraft, the duo’s return was indefinitely delayed.
Both Nasa and Boeing have gathered data from space and ground regarding the Spacecraft’s propulsion and helium systems to understand the technical glitches. The review slated for later today will include a mission status update, review of technical data, and closeout actions, as well as certifying flight rationale to proceed with undocking and return from the space station, as per the official statement.
Reportedly, Bill Nelson and Nasa leaders will discuss flight rationale with an internal Agency Test Flight Readiness Review to be held at Johnson Space Centre in Houston ahead of the press conference.
Ever since the astronauts have been stranded in ISS, Nasa has been considering various options for their safe return. Last week it was reported that Nasa was considering using Starliner as planned or bringing them back aboard SpaceX Dragon Spacecraft. Back then, Nasa leaders said that a final decision would likely be made towards the end of month.
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