Can India help in bringing NASA’s Sunita Williams back to Earth? ISRO Chief S. Somnath responds

In a recent discussion with Times Now News, ISRO Chief Dr. S. Somanath addressed the situation concerning NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore, who have been unable to return to Earth due to technical difficulties with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Originally scheduled to return soon after their launch in June, both astronauts are still aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Dr. Somanath commented, "Whenever such problems occur, everyone is naturally concerned. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a solution." He assured that the situation is being managed carefully, and while it presents challenges, potential solutions are actively being explored.

Dr. Somanath also shed light on NASA’s approach, suggesting that caution might be contributing to the delay. He remarked, "The main question now is whether they are being overly cautious or taking unnecessary risks. If they are erring on the side of caution, I fully support that. It’s not about worrying; it’s about identifying the problem and finding a solution. I’m confident NASA is considering all possible options."

ISRO Chief Discusses Rescue Options

During a recent podcast appearance on BeerBiceps, Dr. Somanath was asked whether India could play a role in the rescue mission. He responded, "Unfortunately, there’s nothing India can do directly to assist at this moment. We currently lack the capability to send a craft for a rescue mission. The most viable solutions would likely come from either the US or Russia. The US has the Crew Dragon vehicle, and Russia has the Soyuz, both of which could be employed for such a mission."

Dr. Somanath’s comments highlight that, at present, India does not have the necessary technology to participate in this rescue effort. While India’s space capabilities are advanced in many areas, they do not extend to having a spacecraft ready for emergency rescues.

Ongoing Mission Complications

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, who was expected to return to Earth after a brief mission that began in June, remains in space due to ongoing issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Her stay has now extended beyond two months, prompting NASA to urgently seek a resolution. The primary challenge lies with the Starliner’s faulty propulsion system, which poses significant safety risks for a crewed return. NASA officials have indicated that a decision regarding the astronauts' return will be made by the end of August.

NASA’s Planning and Potential Alternatives

NASA is exploring the option of utilizing SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission, which is slated for late September, as a possible method to bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth. If this plan is adopted, their return could be postponed until early 2025. NASA is carefully evaluating the safety of the Starliner and considering alternative options to ensure the astronauts’ safe return. A meeting with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and other top officials is scheduled for Saturday, where they are expected to finalize the timeline for the astronauts’ return, based on the safety assessment of the Starliner and the readiness of other spacecraft.

Health and Safety Reassurances

In additional interviews, Dr. Somanath reassured that astronauts are well-prepared for extended missions in space. He minimized concerns about the health effects of prolonged spaceflight, stating, "Astronauts are trained to handle longer stays in space, and they are equipped to manage it." He also downplayed fears about radiation exposure, describing it as "benign" due to the protective environment of the space station.

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