In a day of exciting space breakthroughs, a SpaceX crew capsule touched down at the International Space Station carrying four new astronauts from the U.S., Japan, and Russia. These newcomers have joined veteran astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams—whose planned week-long mission turned into an adventurous nine-month journey—to master the ins and outs of life in orbit.
The station buzzed with energy as hatches swung open, bells rang, and warm greetings filled the air. One of the Russian crew members even lightened the mood by donning a playful alien mask, sparking smiles and a few laughs among the team! 🚀😄
The mission delay came after a series of technical issues with the Boeing Starliner capsule forced NASA to call for a SpaceX lift. With the original plan set for a quick turnaround, unexpected battery repairs on the new capsule led to an older one stepping in—pushing the return schedule to mid-March. Weather permitting, Wilmore, Williams, and their colleagues will undock early Tuesday and splash down off Florida’s coast later that day.
This seamless crew exchange underscores international teamwork and the spirit of exploration on the International Space Station, keeping science, innovation, and friendship at the forefront of space travel.
Reference(s):
NASA's stuck astronauts welcome their newly arrived replacements
cgtn.com
