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Why are NASA astronauts staying longer at the ISS?
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are facing an extended stay at the ISS due to safety concerns regarding Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. Originally scheduled for an eight-day mission, their return has been delayed because of issues like thruster failures and helium leaks, prompting NASA to consider alternative options for their return.
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What safety concerns are affecting the Starliner?
The safety concerns surrounding Boeing's Starliner include thruster failures and helium leaks that have raised doubts about the spacecraft's readiness for crewed flight. These issues have led NASA to reassess the situation and consider using SpaceX's Crew Dragon as a backup for the astronauts' return.
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How does this impact future space missions?
The ongoing challenges with the Starliner program could have significant implications for future space missions. NASA's decision-making process regarding the spacecraft's safety may affect timelines and strategies for upcoming missions, as well as the overall reliability of commercial crewed space travel.
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What are the differences between SpaceX Crew Dragon and Boeing's Starliner?
SpaceX's Crew Dragon and Boeing's Starliner are both designed for crewed missions to the ISS, but they differ in several ways. Crew Dragon has successfully completed multiple missions and has a proven track record, while Starliner has faced delays and safety concerns. These differences may influence NASA's choice for future missions and the astronauts' current situation.
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What is NASA's backup plan for the astronauts?
NASA is currently considering using SpaceX's Crew Dragon as a backup plan for the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. A decision is expected soon, as the agency evaluates the safety and readiness of both spacecraft options in light of the ongoing issues with the Starliner.