As you sit back and relax and enjoy the snowy weather, two NASA astronauts are not so relaxed under all the stars in outer space. These two astronauts named Butch Wilmore and Suni Willams have finally been confirmed to return to earth in February.
On June 5th 2024, these two brave astronauts launched into space, to support station research, maintenance, and analyzing. Barry became an astronaut in 2000, and Suni 1998. Both of them were very excited to go on this mission, as it would be Barry’s third mission, and Suni’s second. Although they did not like the idea of leaving their families, they were willing to take the risk for not only their career, but their country.
“I love being up here in space. It’s just fun, you know,” Williams said.
On the fifth, these two fully launched into space in Cape Canaveral Florida. They were supposed to be in space for only one week, but that did not end up being the case. Prior to the launch, the shuttle had a few complications such as a helium leak. Nasa decided it was not a huge deal and carried on with the mission.
As the two entered outer space, they quickly realized that the leak was more of a problem than they thought. Due to this leak in the aircraft, the two got their return date pushed back by eight months.
“There was no imminent threat to us as a crew, and so we could take the time to analyze, do different testing and really see what different options we could explore for us to get home,” Wilmore said.
One of the main concerns from the people is whether or not they have enough supplies. Luckily, the aircraft is fully equipped with many supplies needed for survival, and lots of oxygen.
After their long six months stuck in space, they have finally been able to start their return home. They are predicted to come home in February. All their families are very excited to be reunited with Butch and Suni.