Back in June 2024, astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore embarked on what was supposed to be an eight-day mission to the International Space Station. Little did they know, their journey would extend to several months due to unexpected challenges.
The Boeing capsule they journeyed in faced technical difficulties, notably a helium leak. This issue resulted in delays, keeping the astronauts in space much longer than planned. The mission’s return was postponed multiple times, with NASA now anticipating their return by March of the following year.
The situation of the astronauts became a topic of intrigue and concern, as Williams and Wilmore found themselves orbiting in space for close to eight months.
Originally, in June 2024, they boarded Boeing’s “Starliner” targeting an 8-day space mission, which quickly transformed into a prolonged stay.
President Donald Trump voiced his thoughts regarding the astronauts’ situation, suggesting that the then-current administration had abandoned them. He urged Elon Musk and SpaceX to “go get them,” expressing his faith in Musk’s capability.
Elon Musk responded positively to the call.
Musk took to social media, assuring he would see to their safe return home. Yet, the term “stranded” might not quite fit the facts of their predicament. Astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell offers a more relaxed perspective.
“While people say they are stranded, that’s not how NASA sees it,” McDowell clarifies. “It’s not an emergency; it’s being exaggerated.”
Reassuringly, both astronauts are in good spirits according to NASA. Their vital needs, such as food and clothing, are well met. They express positive sentiments about their extended stay.
In communication from space, Williams remarked, “Working up here is truly amazing. We don’t feel like castaways. Of course, we look forward to returning to our families, but our work keeps us engaged.”
The duo is engaged in numerous tasks, including experiments, spacewalks, and standard operations aboard the station.
As discussions about their compensation for the extended duration in space arose, the answers were enlightening.
Retired NASA astronaut Cady Coleman shared that as federal employees, the astronauts receive standard pay akin to any employee on a business trip.
The additional pay astronauts receive per day is modest, similar to a nominal allowance for incidentals. Coleman mentioned an amount around $4 per day for similar circumstances.
Based on this rate, both Williams and Wilmore might only receive an extra $1,004 for their time in space beyond the planned mission.
Their remarkable stamina and dedication during this extended mission continue to capture public interest.
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