CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, often described as the “stuck astronauts,” recently reached the six-month milestone in their space mission, with two months still to go. They launched into orbit on June 5 in Boeing’s new Starliner crew capsule, initially intended for a weeklong test flight. Their arrival at the International Space Station (ISS) the following day was marked by overcoming multiple thruster failures and helium leaks. NASA ultimately deemed the Starliner too hazardous for their return journey, meaning their mission will not conclude until February.
Despite the label of being “stuck,” which NASA officials hesitate to endorse, both astronauts have taken this turn of events in stride. Wilmore describes their situation as simply a change in direction: “We’re just on a different path.” Williams, reflecting on her experience, stated to students that she finds living in space to be incredibly enjoyable.
Both astronauts quickly integrated into the ISS crew, leveraging their prior space experience as they contributed to various scientific experiments and essential maintenance tasks, such as repairing a faulty toilet, cleaning air vents, and caring for plants. Williams took command of the space station in September, further solidifying her role.
Mindset plays a crucial role in their situation, as highlighted by Wilmore while speaking to first-graders in Nashville. He expressed his inherent positivity, indicating that he approaches challenges with a constructive attitude. Meanwhile, Boeing’s empty Starliner test flight back in September led to Wilmore and Williams being reassigned to a SpaceX mission that’s not scheduled to return until late February. Their relocation meant that some astronauts had to be reassigned to maintain a six-month timeline for crew rotations.
NASA’s Associate Administrator Jim Free emphasized that astronauts are trained to expect a possible extended stay in space, indicating readiness for a range of unexpected developments. This preparedness was notably relevant for NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, whose six-month assignment extended to over a year due to an emergency involving a replacement capsule from the Russian Space Agency.
Boeing has publicly acknowledged the crucial feedback from Wilmore and Williams as they investigate the issues plaguing the Starliner program. The company is in the process of preparing for the next flight of the Starliner, but details regarding the schedule remain undisclosed.
NASA continues to commend the two astronauts for their professionalism under the circumstances. “Whether it was luck or selection, they were great folks to have for this mission,” stated Dr. JD Polk, NASA’s chief health and medical officer.
In addition to the mission’s demands, Williams, at 59 years old, has faced unfounded speculation about her weight loss in space, which she fervently denies, reaffirming that her weight has remained consistent since launch. Initially experiencing a lack of appetite, Williams now describes herself as “super hungry,” maintaining a routine of three meals a day alongside the two hours of exercise needed to meet health requirements.
As a dedicated distance runner, Williams utilizes the treadmill on the ISS to train for races back in her home state and had successfully participated in Cape Cod’s 7-mile Falmouth Road Race in August, as well as running the Boston Marathon in 2007 while in orbit. She has also brought along a New England Patriots shirt for game days, as well as a Red Sox spring training shirt, expressing a desire to return before game day.
Wilmore, who is 61, is feeling the effects of missing significant family milestones, including his younger daughter’s senior year and his older daughter’s college theater productions. His wife, Deanna, acknowledged the challenge of their separation, particularly during the holiday season, expressing that he is feeling the strain of being far from home. She shared her anticipation for their reunion, stating, “We are certainly looking forward to February!!”
Overall, both astronauts remain committed to their mission while managing the challenges of extended space travel and the sacrifices it entails.
