NASA astronauts who flew on Boeing's spaceship to remain in space even longer
NBCDEC 2024
NASA ISS Astronauts' Return Delayed Until Spring
Above: NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams Image copyright: Paul Hennessy/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This delay represents a necessary operational decision to ensure crew safety and maintain proper space station protocols while awaiting a crew transition. Two resupply flights were recently made to ensure the astronauts' health and comfort, including bringing them items to celebrate the upcoming holidays.
Narrative B
This prolonged stay represents an unplanned burden on the astronauts, who prepared for a one-week mission but are now facing 10 months in space. This situation — described by some as "inhumane and torture" — highlights concerns about the psychological and physical impacts of extended space missions.
Metaculus Prediction
There's a 50% chance that a free flying commercial space station will become operational by Feb. 22, 2031, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
