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NASA has once again delayed the launch of the SpaceX Crew-10 mission, further postponing the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS). The delay was caused by an issue with a hydraulic system on the ground, though the Falcon 9 rocket and the Crew Dragon spacecraft remain in good condition.
Why is Crew-10 Important?
The Crew-10 mission is essential because it will replace Crew-9, which includes Williams and Wilmore. NASA has stated that Crew-9 can only return to Earth once Crew-10 arrives at the ISS. The two astronauts have been in space for nine months due to technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner, the spacecraft that originally took them to the ISS.
Our #Crew10 explorers are launching to the @Space_Station this evening. Come watch with us!
— NASA (@NASA) March 12, 2025
Crew-10 is scheduled to lift off atop a @SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at 7:48pm ET (2348 UTC). Share your questions with #AskNASA and we'll answer a few on stream! https://t.co/o3onJBNTe9
New Launch Date for Crew-10
NASA has rescheduled the launch for March 13 at 7:26 PM EDT from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. If successful, Crew-10 will dock at the ISS on March 14 at 11:30 PM EDT. Backup launch opportunities are available on March 14 or 15, depending on how quickly the hydraulic issue is resolved.
When Will Sunita Williams Return?
If Crew-10 launches on March 13, Crew-9 is expected to leave the ISS no earlier than March 17 at 9:05 AM EST, depending on weather conditions. If the launch happens later, the return could shift to March 18.
Boeing’s Starliner Delays
Boeing’s Starliner was developed under a $4.5 billion contract with NASA to compete with SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. However, Starliner has faced engineering problems and cost overruns since 2019, leading to significant delays. As a result, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon remains NASA’s primary spacecraft for transporting astronauts.
For now, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore continue their work on the ISS as they wait for a safe return to Earth.
