Latest Innovation: Boeing Starliner Astronauts Prepare for Safe Return from International Space Station

Boeing Starliner astronauts , Barry E. Wilmore and Sunita Williams , both part of the NASstronaut Corps , have been aboard the International Space Station ( ISS ) for over a month . They expressed confidence in the spacecraft 's ability to bring them back safely . The astronauts have tested a " Safe Haven procedure " and are prepared for any emergency situation that may arise.

The pair launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 5 and docked with the ISS on June 6 . Originally scheduled to return on June 14 , mechanical issues with the Starliner have left them stranded on the ISS with no set return date . NASA assured that the astronauts are safe and have ample supplies aboard the station.

NASA 's Commercial Crew program manager , Steve Stich , explained that they are meticulously analyzing data to ensure the spacecraft 's performance before deciding on the return opportunity . Wilmore and Williams are actively involved in station operations and completing objectives necessary for NASA 's certification of Starliner.

Ground tests are being conducted on Starliner 's thrusters at NASA 's White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico . The tests aim to replicate the thruster 's performance during docking and re - entry to Earth . Despite encountering issues before launch , including a helium leak and thruster problems , Starliner successfully docked with the ISS.

The astronauts are working closely with the Expedition 71 crew aboard the ISS and have been an integral part of research activities on the station . The testing team is striving to replicate the conditions experienced by Starliner inflight to ensure a safe return mission . The team anticipates completing the tests by the end of the week.

The Starliner-1 Crew Flight Test faced delays due to technical issues , including an oxygen valve problem on the rocket and helium leaks in the spacecraft 's service module . Despite these challenges , NASA and Boeing remain committed to resolving the issues and ensuring the safe return of the astronauts.