Elon Musk Volunteers SpaceX to Get Stranded NASA Astronauts Home

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore, stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for more than nine months because of technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, could be returning home soon—thanks to SpaceX.

Williams and Wilmore initially arrived at the ISS in June 2024 for what was initially an eight-day mission. But due to issues with Starliner’s propulsion system and helium leaks, their return has been postponed multiple times. The extended stay has also raised eyebrows regarding the health of the astronauts and the requirement for a guaranteed return plan.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently urged Elon Musk to step in and assist with bringing the astronauts back home. Musk responded, confirming that SpaceX was ready to help. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, which has successfully transported astronauts to and from the ISS multiple times, could serve as an alternative to the troubled Starliner.

Nonetheless, NASA has already reserved a return date for Williams and Wilmore on the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, which will be in March 2025. The agency has assured the public that the astronauts are in good health and continue to perform their duties on board the ISS while waiting for their return.

The delays underscore persistent issues for Boeing’s Starliner program, which has experienced numerous setbacks in its attempt to prove itself as a trustworthy contender for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Conversely, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has performed multiple successful missions and solidified its standing as the go-to transportation partner for NASA.

As events unfold, everyone waits with bated breath for NASA and SpaceX to bring Williams and Wilmore back safely, marking the end of their unusually prolonged mission.