NASA's mission manager, Steve Stich, expressed excitement about the astronauts' homecoming after their extensive period in space. The returning astronauts, along with their colleagues from the ISS, will transition to the new team, which includes crew members from Russia and Japan. A weather check will determine the exact timing for their descent back to Earth, which may extend their stay further.

Despite the complications, both Wilmore and Williams have found joy in their time aboard the ISS, with Williams referring to it as her "happy place." However, it comes at a personal cost, as the lengthy stay has left them missing significant moments back home.

Their mission was originally aimed at testing the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, but tech issues led NASA to opt for a safer exit route via SpaceX's Dragon capsule rather than risking the Starliner’s return. Critics, including former President Trump and CEO Elon Musk, voiced concerns about potential delays influenced by political factors, claims NASA's team refuted as baseless, emphasizing their focus on astronaut safety and optimal decision-making.

In the meantime, excitement grows for the astronauts' return, promising to reunite them with loved ones after an extended adventure in outer space.