Space Duo's Stellar Journey Nears End: Butch and Suni Prepare for Homecoming

Wed Oct 22 2025 01:42:00 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

After an extended stay aboard the ISS, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are set to return to Earth in a dramatic descent, ending a captivating nine-month mission.

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, initially bound for an eight-day mission on the ISS, are finally heading home following unexpected delays. They will return via a SpaceX capsule, splashing down off Florida after a controlled re-entry.

Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are about to complete their incredible journey as they prepare to leave the International Space Station (ISS) after an unexpected nine-month stay. Their mission, which was originally supposed to last just eight days, faced significant delays after the Starliner spacecraft they used for arrival encountered technical glitches.

Now, they are primed to make their big return home in a SpaceX capsule alongside NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. The group is set to undock from the ISS at 0505 GMT (0105 EDT) on Tuesday and aim for a splashdown near Florida later that day at 2157 GMT (1757 EDT), although weather could impact the landing schedule.

Their re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere will not be for the faint-hearted, as the capsule must endure temperatures soaring to 1600C and strong g-forces as they slow down. Once safe, four parachutes will deploy to ensure a gentle landing at sea. British astronaut Helen Sharman shared that while the experience will be thrilling, the best part will be the feeling of fresh air on their return.

Their saga began in June 2024 when they participated in the Starliner's crewed test flight. Due to the aforementioned issues, the astronauts had to stay much longer than planned while SpaceX stepped in to offer a ride home. Despite being characterized as "stranded," they always had a way back, as multiple spacecraft were docked to the station.

Prior to their exit, both Butch and Suni expressed mixed feelings about leaving. They carried out valuable scientific experiments during their extended stay, with Suni even setting a record for the most hours a woman has spent in space. As they prepare to reunite with family and friends, it’s their longing for the simple joys of Earth, like being with their pets and feeling sunshine, that resonates most.

Once back, they will undergo medical evaluations at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Texas, addressing the physical effects of long-duration space travel. Their journey showcases the challenges and triumphs of human space flight, reminding us of the wonder beyond our planet.