NASA Astronauts' Stay on ISS Extended Amid Starliner Technical Issues

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore, initially scheduled to return from the ISS last month, will remain in space until at least August due to Starliner spacecraft technical issues. Despite delays, the astronauts expressed confidence in Starliner’s capabilities during a recent press conference.

NASA astronauts Sunita 'Suni' Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, who traveled to the International Space Station aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, might have to stay in space until August as engineers work to fix technical issues. Williams and Wilmore spoke to reporters from space in their first press conference.

The Starliner faced several delays during its launch because of safety concerns stemming from faulty thrusters and helium leaks. Williams and Wilmore are the first human crew on Starliner's historic test mission. Both astronauts voiced their confidence in Starliner's ability to get them back to Earth, though NASA has not provided a return date.

In a statement, Williams said she's confident that they could safely return if any issues arose with the ISS. Wilmore echoed her sentiments. The astronauts have settled into life on the ISS, joining the existing crew to assist with scientific research and maintenance tasks, while further testing the Starliner capsule.

(With inputs from agencies.)