The prospects of launching people into space have always been risky for the astronauts involved, but getting stranded in space is debatably more terrifying of a concept. Unfortunately for Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, this will be their reality for a little while longer, as the scheduled launch for their return to Earth has been postponed for the time being.
The pair found themselves in a predicament last year when their spacecraft began having difficulties with its thrusters and other components. They did make it to the International Space Station (ISS), but NASA deemed the craft too dangerous to use for their return. It has been about nine months since then, and the people of SpaceX are keen on getting them back home.
They planned to take off yesterday with a team of four to return Butch and Suni from their extended trip, but an issue occurred before launch. There were growing concerns about the hydraulics that assist the rocket in staying in place atop the launch pad. The problem could’ve potentially messed up the rocket’s projected flight pattern, so NASA canceled the launch an hour before it happened.
They have come out and said they plan to reschedule the launch for this Friday, but only time will tell if they will go through with it. This update for the stranded astronauts will surely serve as an annoyance, but it at least gives hope that they will soon be reunited with their families and friends after an unexpected stay among the stars.
