Astronaut Sunita Williams’s Return From Space Postponed Indefinitely Amid Starliner Glitches

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, along with fellow crew members, faces an extended stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS) due to persistent glitches in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft they travelled in. Initially scheduled to return on June 26, the return journey has been postponed indefinitely as NASA and Boeing engineers continue to investigate technical issues.

The Boeing Starliner, making its debut mission, has encountered multiple setbacks, including delays in its launch due to issues with the Atlas 5 rocket and countdown computer malfunctions. However, the most pressing concerns revolve around helium leaks and thruster failures detected after its rendezvous and docking with the ISS.

According to a CBS News report, NASA and Boeing have opted to extend the Starliner's stay at the ISS to allow for comprehensive analysis and testing. The space agency is planning to set a new landing target date after holding a formal re-entry readiness review.