NASA Adjusts Return Plans for Astronauts After Extended ISS Mission

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, initially set for an 8-day mission, will return to Earth in March after nearly 290 days in space due to spacecraft complications.

NASA plans to bring astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore home on March 19, two weeks earlier than initially scheduled, after an extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The mission, originally planned for 8 to 30 days, stretched to nearly 290 days due to propulsion and helium leak issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which was deemed unsafe for their return.
NASA's decision to swap SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft for the return was finalized months ago, unrelated to recent political statements by President Trump and Elon Musk.
Trump and Musk have publicly criticized the Biden administration for the delay, though NASA and SpaceX cite technical challenges with the Crew Dragon spacecraft as the primary cause.
The astronauts emphasized that they do not feel abandoned, highlighting their ongoing contributions to scientific research and the importance of maintaining a fully staffed ISS.