Two American astronauts have been stranded in space for months—far longer than planned.
As NASA works on a solution, former President Donald Trump has stepped in with an unexpected proposal. His announcement has sparked debates, excitement, and even confusion.
But what’s really going on? Are these astronauts actually stranded? And is Trump’s rescue plan serious?
A Mission That Was Supposed to Last Just 10 Days
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft in June 2024. Their mission was part of a long-awaited test flight designed to evaluate Starliner’s ability to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS).
Initially, they were only supposed to stay in space for ten days before returning to Earth. But things didn’t go as planned.
Shortly after arriving at the ISS, technical problems with Starliner’s thrusters and a helium leak were discovered.
NASA and Boeing made the decision to delay their return multiple times while engineers worked on a solution. That ten-day trip has now turned into a nine-month stay in space, leaving the astronauts in an unexpected, extended mission.
What Exactly Went Wrong with the Starliner?
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft was meant to compete with SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as a reliable way to transport astronauts to and from space. However, this mission has highlighted several issues:
- Thruster failures – The propulsion system experienced malfunctions, meaning the spacecraft might not have been able to safely return to Earth.
- Helium leaks – Helium is used to pressurize the propulsion system, and a leak could affect the spacecraft’s ability to maneuver.
- Previous Starliner failures – This isn’t the first time Boeing’s Starliner has had issues. A 2019 test flight failed to reach the ISS due to software problems, and a 2021 mission was delayed due to faulty valves.
Because of these problems, NASA and Boeing decided it was safer to wait and find a solution rather than risk an unsafe return trip.
Trump’s Unexpected Rescue Proposal
Amid growing public interest in the astronauts’ situation, Donald Trump made an unexpected announcement.
Speaking about the issue, Trump offered to send a SpaceX mission to rescue the astronauts. He even joked about joining the mission himself, saying:
“Elon is right now preparing a ship to go up and get them.”
“We love you, and we’re coming up to get you, and you shouldn’t have been up there so long. The most incompetent president in our history has allowed that to happen to you…”
“I’ve authorized Elon, I said ‘Can you get them out?’”
“Should I go on that journey just to be on the ship when we stop?”
This statement immediately went viral. Some people saw it as a bold leadership move, while others thought it was a publicity stunt.
But is a SpaceX rescue really necessary?
NASA’s Response: Are the Astronauts Really Stranded?
NASA quickly shut down the idea that the astronauts were in danger.
Officials reassured the public that Wilmore and Williams are safe, have everything they need aboard the ISS, and are simply waiting for their planned return in late March 2025. NASA has been working with Boeing to ensure that Starliner will be able to return them home safely.
However, in case Boeing’s fixes don’t work, NASA has already made backup plans:
- Using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon to bring them home
- Sending another spacecraft if necessary
So, while Trump’s offer may have been dramatic, NASA does not see the situation as an emergency.
Public Reaction: Praise, Criticism, and Jokes
Trump’s comments have sparked a wide range of reactions:
- Supporters say this proves he’s a problem-solver, willing to take action when others hesitate.
- Critics argue that the astronauts aren’t stranded, and Trump is exaggerating the issue for attention.
- Space enthusiasts have debated whether a SpaceX rescue would even be necessary.
- Social media users have turned it into a meme, with some joking that Trump would rename Mars “Trump Planet” if he ever went to space.
Even Wilmore and Williams—the astronauts in question—have commented. They assured the public they aren’t worried and are confident in NASA’s return plan.
What Happens Next?
NASA and Boeing are still finalizing plans to bring the astronauts back. If all goes well, Starliner will return to Earth by late March 2025. If there are further issues, NASA may opt for an alternative method, possibly involving SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.
So, will Trump’s SpaceX rescue mission happen? Unlikely. But his comments have certainly added entertainment and drama to an already unusual space mission.
