00:00Imagine being stuck in space for over 51 days with no clear end in sight.
00:05This is the reality for NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Butch Wilmore.
00:10What was supposed to be an 8-day mission has turned into an indefinite stay aboard the ISS
00:16due to critical malfunctions in their Boeing Starliner capsule.
00:20The trouble began shortly after their launch on June 5th.
00:24The capsule, which was meant to showcase Boeing's capabilities,
00:27developed multiple helium leaks and thruster failures.
00:31Five of the Starliner's thrusters malfunctioned during flight,
00:35and although four were restored, one remains shut off.
00:39Additionally, helium leaks have been a persistent issue.
00:43NASA and Boeing have reassured the public that Williams and Wilmore are not stranded
00:48and could theoretically return on the Starliner.
00:51Yet, the astronauts remain in space as engineers work remotely to fix the issues,
00:56leaving many to question the spacecraft's safety.
00:59Former NASA astronaut Scott Kelly voiced concerns about the extended mission.
01:05More people on the ISS means increased strain on resources,
01:09though it also means more hands to help with maintenance and experiments.
01:13Despite the challenges, Williams and Wilmore remain busy,
01:17conducting crucial science experiments and performing upkeep on the station.
01:22The situation remains tense as NASA and Boeing continue to assess
01:26the Starliner's readiness for a safe return.
01:28For now, Williams and Wilmore's journey in space is far from over.
01:33Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.
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