While NASA and Boeing engineers are close to deciding on the best way to bring Starliner crew members Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams back to Earth, the astronauts have been keeping busy aboard the International Space Station (ISS). According to an update on August 20, they have been involved in various science experiments, maintenance tasks, and assisting their ISS roommates with spacewalk preparations. Additionally, Wilmore and Williams are contributing to research on fiber optic cable production and gardening in microgravity.
Although not stranded in the traditional sense, Wilmore and Williams have been on the ISS since June 6, well beyond their original eight-day mission. Following the launch of Boeing’s Starliner, technical issues with the spacecraft’s thruster systems were discovered, leading to extended stay on the ISS. NASA and Boeing have been conducting tests and reviewing data to determine the best course of action, with a decision expected by the end of August.
Aside from monitoring Starliner’s systems and assisting with experiments, Wilmore and Williams are also participating in the Flawless Space Fibers-1 experiment to improve fiber optic cable production in space. They are also involved in crop-related experiments like Plant Water Management 5 and 6, which aim to optimize plant hydration and aeration in microgravity.
During their free time, the astronauts stay connected with friends and family through email, calls, and video chats. There is a possibility that they may join the SpaceX Crew-9 mission in September, extending their stay on the ISS. Despite the challenges, Wilmore and Williams continue to adapt and contribute to scientific advancements in space exploration.
