The safe return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS) has been delayed due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. NASA is scheduled to convene a high-level meeting on Saturday to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Concerns have arisen regarding the safety of the Starliner vehicle, following the detection of propulsion system issues. NASA will carefully evaluate whether the spacecraft is suitable for transporting the astronauts back to Earth. If deemed unsafe, the agency may opt to return the crew using alternative means, such as a SpaceX capsule.

Utilizing a SpaceX capsule for the return journey would likely extend the mission timeline. A potential launch date in September has been suggested, with the mission completion anticipated to take several months. The original plan for Williams and Wilmore to return within a week has been disrupted by the unforeseen technical challenges.

The Boeing Starliner’s inaugural crewed mission has encountered difficulties, underscoring the complexities of space travel. NASA’s priority remains the safe and timely return of the astronauts to Earth. The agency’s decision on Saturday will determine the next steps in this ongoing mission.