NASA Astronauts Return After Unprecedented Nine-Month Mission
NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore splash down after a nine-month stay at the ISS, extended due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner.
Overview
NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico after a nine-month mission aboard the ISS, originally intended to last only a week. They became the first crew aboard Boeing's Starliner, but technical failures led to an extended stay, as NASA opted to send the damaged capsule back to Earth without them. Their eventual return via a SpaceX Dragon capsule included two new crewmates, and the astronauts, who have conducted numerous experiments during their unexpected journey, expressed a mix of excitement and relief at being home.
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FAQ
The extended mission caused personal sacrifices, such as missing significant family events. For example, Butch Wilmore missed his daughter's senior year milestones. Communication with loved ones via internet calls was crucial for maintaining a connection to home.
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