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ISS trio prepares for groundbreaking spacewalk!
On February 12, 2025, NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore prepare for a spacewalk on the ISS.
ISS trio prepares for groundbreaking spacewalk!
A dramatic update from space: NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for over nine months, are about to return to Earth. Originally intended for a one-week mission, the two experienced astronauts had to accept an unforeseen extension of their mission due to technical problems with the Boeing “Starliner”. Loud vienna.at March 12, 2025 has been set as the new return date. Before that, however, they will take part in a crucial spacewalk.
The upcoming spacewalk (EVA) on January 30, 2025 is already considered one of the most important missions, as it will collect valuable communications technology and samples for microbial research. Williams will be completing her tenth EVA, while Wilmore will be donning the outboard device for the fifth time. Both astronauts must remove an S-band antenna that will be sent back to Earth for repairs. This is seen as a crucial step for the future of the station and the safety of the next crew, such as Space.com reported.
Technical problems and their consequences
The Orion spacecraft test launch and the delayed manufacturing process of the new Crew Dragon spacecraft have complicated the return of Crew 9, which includes Williams and Wilmore. Due to these delays, the return is expected to take place in the first week of April. Williams and Wilmore were stranded just six days after arriving on the ISS after a planned return on an unoccupied variant of the Starliner became necessary. This highlights the challenges associated with current manned space travel.
The astronauts, trained for all eventualities, are now faced with the task of both dismantling the technology in question and taking samples from the outside of the station. The return of Williams and Wilmore is seen as a critical moment, marking the end of a challenging yet educational mission. Their experience and expertise are invaluable to NASA, which will master this challenge with flying colors.