SpaceX delays flight to replace NASA’s stuck astronauts due to launch pad issue
SpaceX delays its flight to replace NASA astronauts at the ISS due to a hydraulic system issue. The delay affects the return of Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been aboard the station for nine months.
SpaceX has postponed its planned flight to the International Space Station (ISS) after a launch pad issue emerged, preventing the timely replacement of two NASA astronauts currently stationed in space. The delay occurred just hours before the scheduled liftoff from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.
Hydraulic system problem forces SpaceX's delay
The delay was caused by a hydraulic system problem that arose less than four hours before the Falcon rocket's scheduled evening launch. The issue involved the hydraulics that control the release of one of the two arms that secure the rocket to its support structure. This system is critical, as the rocket needs to tilt back before liftoff to ensure a safe launch.
As the countdown ticked away, engineers assessed the situation, focusing on whether the hydraulic system could safely release the rocket from its launch pad. Despite being strapped into their capsule, the four astronauts aboard awaited a final decision. With less than an hour remaining in the countdown, SpaceX made the decision to cancel the launch for the day.
NASA Astronauts Wilmore and Williams Await Replacement
Although no new launch date was immediately announced, SpaceX indicated that the next attempt could happen as early as Thursday night. The company emphasized the importance of ensuring the rocket’s systems were fully operational before attempting the launch again.
Once the new crew arrives at the space station, they will replace NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. The two astronauts have been stucked on the ISS for nine months and were originally supposed to return home sooner. However, the delay in the Boeing Starliner capsule’s development forced NASA to make a last-minute change.
Boeing Starliner capsule breakdown causes extended stay
Wilmore and Williams had initially planned a short-duration mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule. However, significant issues arose with the Starliner’s new system during its debut crew flight. As a result, the capsule had to return without crew members, and Wilmore and Williams were transferred to SpaceX’s vehicle for the return journey.
The change in plans means that the astronauts’ stay on the ISS was extended far beyond the original week-long mission. Now, the arrival of SpaceX’s new crew will mark the beginning of the astronauts’ journey home.