As we continue to work towards space exploration, it is expected that humanity suffers some hiccups. One of these hiccups happened at the International Space Station (ISS) where two astronauts were left stranded.
These duo had been expected to leave the ISS since June of 2024, but had been docking there due to an issue with their spacecraft. With no way to return to earth, they had to wait for a rescue mission. Good news — a rescue mission was launched on September 29, 2024 and now the stranded astronauts may finally have a way home.
But what really happened?
The SpaceX Rescue Mission
On September 28, 2024, a SpaceX Crew-9 mission set out from Earth carrying NASA’s Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov to the ISS. Normally, this would have been a crew rotation for the ISS astronauts, but this time it was different. The duo traveled on the SpaceX capsule which was fitted with room to facilitate the rescue and return of Wilmore and Williams to earth.
Not like they were in any danger, but they had been stranded aboard the ISS for a mission that was supposed to last just eight days. However, due to some technical issues, the duo will have to stay on the space station till February 2025 when they leave with the SpaceX Crew-9 team.
The reason for this new development is due to a technical issue on Williams and Wilmore’s spacecraft, the Boeing Starliner. The spacecraft had developed issues with its thrusters and also some helium leaks. So, NASA had to delay the astronauts expected return and stated that they would be returning to Earth with the SpaceX capsule in February 2024.
Impact on Astronauts and ISS Operations
The Starliner’s technical issues have hampered operations at the International Space Station. One of the ways is the extended stay for astronauts Wilmore and Williams who have now spent eight months on the ISS. Also, NASA’s crew rotation schedule has been disrupted, and as such affected numerous scientific research projects and ISS operations.
Despite these challenges, the space station remains operational, with astronauts continuing their daily routines, conducting vital experiments and maintenance. To mitigate the impact, NASA collaborated with international partners to ensure continuity of critical projects.
SpaceX's Role in Space Exploration
SpaceX, a private company run by Elon Musk, has established itself as a leading partner in space exploration since 2020. Through its Crew Dragon program, the company has been able to consistently ship astronauts to the ISS to ensure continuous crew rotations.
SpaceX’s partnership with NASA has also continued to play a pivotal role in maintaining the ISS operational continuity. This partnership with NASA points to the company’s drive for success. Moreso, given the company’s recent successes, Elon Musk’s statement about the company taking humanity to Mars isn’t far-fetched.
Closing Thoughts
The impact of collaboration and adaptability is essential in space exploration and this much is evident in the SpaceX Crew Dragon’s rescue mission. The success of this rescue mission would help the space industry evolve and showcase the importance of reliable partnerships. The possible partnerships will also help NASA fight challenges ahead, as the job of exploring space is the duty of everyone.