This week's science news was largely dominated by the return of two NASA astronauts from the International Spa

[Kaz]

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This week's science news was largely dominated by the return of two NASA astronauts from the International Space Station, whose planned eight-day mission ended up lasting 286 days.

Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams lifted off from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 5, 2024, but not long into the mission helium leaks, along with a number of other issues, were discovered on their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.

 

Starliner had already suffered years of delays, and although it was later suggested the pair would have been fine to return home on the suspect vessel, the risk to their safety was considered too great. As such, it wasn't until 5:57 p.m. ET on Tuesday (March 18) that the astronauts finally splashed down near the coast of Florida, after hitching a lift aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule.

 

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Science news this week: 'Stranded' astronauts return and mystery human ancestor | Live Science

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March 22, 2025: Our weekly roundup of the latest science in the news, as well as a few fascinating articles to keep you entertained over the...

 

The bigger problem was that they didn't have universal support between Starliner and SpaceX, the space suits didn't integrate the same.  That's why it took so long to bring them back.