Ten Months in Orbit: Starliner Crew Faces Crisis with Calm and Confidence

In June 2024, astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore embarked on a mission that was supposed to last just over a week. Instead, it evolved into a ten-month journey due to severe malfunctions aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule, which was undergoing its first crewed test flight.

The trouble began when the spacecraft's thrusters failed just as they approached the International Space Station. Docking was crucial, not just for completing the mission, but also for ensuring a safe return to Earth. The astronauts relied on guidance from Mission Control to restart the thrusters and successfully dock.

Though the immediate danger was averted, the astronauts knew that returning home aboard the malfunctioning Starliner was too risky. NASA made the decision to bring them back using a SpaceX capsule, despite Boeing’s assurance that the Starliner was still safe. Later, Boeing did prove the capsule’s capabilities by landing it safely without a crew.

Throughout the ordeal, both astronauts maintained their composure. Williams and Wilmore refrained from speaking about worst-case scenarios, choosing instead to focus on solving each issue as it arose. Their training and mutual understanding helped them stay focused under extreme stress.

Media coverage and political commentary painted their extended stay as being "stranded," but this wasn’t accurate. Emergency spacecraft were always docked at the ISS, ready to serve as lifeboats if needed. Nonetheless, the political atmosphere escalated when President Trump criticized Biden’s administration for supposedly leaving them in space.

The astronauts chose not to engage in political narratives. "We can't speak to that," Wilmore said. Their priority was the mission and safety. Both understood the complexities of space travel and were grateful for the support teams who were working tirelessly on the ground.

After finally returning to Earth in March 2025, the astronauts reported excellent health. Wilmore, who did squats and deadlifts daily in zero gravity, claimed he was physically stronger than ever. Williams, known for running a marathon in orbit, resumed jogging shortly after landing but noted the physical adjustment to gravity was tough.

Now back on Earth, both astronauts are helping NASA and Boeing resolve the technical issues. They expressed optimism about the future of Starliner and are confident enough to fly in it again. Williams called the spacecraft "very capable," emphasizing its value for future missions.