In a joint effort to ensure the safety and functionality of the Starliner spacecraft, NASA and Boeing have announced plans to conduct ground tests before allowing astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to return to Earth. The spacecraft has been docked at the International Space Station (ISS) since June 6 for what was intended to be a 10-day flight test. However, issues with the thrusters and a helium leak prompted further investigation.

While some may speculate that the astronauts are "stranded" on the ISS, officials quickly dismissed such claims. Steve Stich, NASA's Commercial Crew Program manager, emphasized, "We're not in a rush to come home." The priority remains ensuring that any concerns with the Starliner's thrusters are addressed before granting approval for the return flight.

The ground tests, scheduled to begin as soon as Tuesday, will be conducted at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. These tests aim to provide valuable insights into the issues encountered by the spacecraft during its approach to the ISS. Once the ground tests are completed and analyses have been thoroughly evaluated, NASA and Boeing will determine the appropriate date for the astronauts' journey back to Earth.

Initially, it was believed that Starliner could only remain docked at the ISS for a maximum of 45 days due to battery limitations. However, Stich clarified that the space station is recharging the batteries, potentially extending the docking duration. Stich reassured the public, stating, "Butch and Suni are not stranded in space." The plan remains to return them home using the Starliner spacecraft at the appropriate time.

Despite the ongoing tests and evaluations, the officials highlighted that Starliner is performing well while docked at the ISS. The spacecraft could still be utilized as a lifeboat if an emergency situation arises, ensuring the safety of the astronauts.

Mark Nappi, Vice President and program manager of Boeing's Commercial Crew Program, reiterated the statements made by Stich, emphasizing the crew's safety and the absence of increased risk. Nappi said, "We're not stuck on the ISS, the crew is not in any danger, and there's no increased risk when we decide to bring Suni and Butch back to Earth."

As the ground tests commence, the ongoing collaboration between NASA and Boeing aims to address the thruster issues encountered by the Starliner spacecraft. These tests are a crucial step towards ensuring the safe return of the astronauts. The space exploration community eagerly awaits further updates on the progress of these tests and the subsequent journey home for Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams.