Sunita Williams' homecoming nears as NASA sets March 18 return date for stranded astronauts

NASA Astronauts Set to Return After Nine Months Stranded in Space. (Image: NASA/X)

For Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, a short mission turned into an extended stay. What was meant to last days stretched into nine months, leaving them far from home. Now, NASA has confirmed their long-awaited return to Earth is set for Tuesday evening.

Delayed Return Due to Starliner Issues
Wilmore and Williams have been on the International Space Station (ISS) since June. They were part of Boeing Starliner’s first crewed flight, but technical problems left the spacecraft unable to bring them back. NASA deemed the vehicle unsafe, forcing the astronauts to wait for another way home.

Their return will now happen aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon. The capsule arrived at the ISS on Sunday, bringing relief for the stranded duo. NASA initially planned their return for Wednesday but moved it up due to changing weather conditions. The capsule will splash down off Florida’s coast at 5:57 p.m. local time (2157 GMT).

Journey Home with Additional Crew
Wilmore and Williams will not be returning alone. NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will join them on the SpaceX craft. Hatch closure preparations begin Monday evening, with the journey broadcast live.

The pair’s unexpected stay has lasted far beyond a typical six-month ISS mission. While not the longest in space history, it was far from planned. They even needed extra clothing and personal care supplies, having packed only for a short trip.

Their extended mission has drawn attention and sympathy. Nine months away from home, away from family, has not been easy. Now, at last, their journey back to Earth is about to begin.