Musk Accuses Biden Administration of Delaying Astronauts’ Return
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has accused the Biden administration of intentionally delaying the return of NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS). Musk claims that SpaceX offered to rescue the astronauts months ago, but the White House refused to allow it. On social media platform X, Musk wrote, “SpaceX could have sent another Dragon spacecraft and brought them back six months ago, but the Biden White House (not NASA) stopped it.” He also mentioned that former President Donald Trump had intervened to push for their return.
Astronauts Stranded Due to Boeing Starliner Safety Issues
Williams and Wilmore traveled to the ISS on June 6, 2024, aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, NASA later deemed the Starliner unsafe for reentry, forcing an indefinite delay in their return. As a result, the astronauts will now return to Earth on a SpaceX Crew Dragon, taking the seats left by the departing Crew-9 astronauts.
Elon Musk Raises Concerns About Prolonged Spaceflight
Elon Musk has repeatedly warned about the dangers of staying in space for too long, especially the health risks caused by microgravity, such as bone loss. He stated, “No one else can bring them back. NASA can’t do it. The SpaceX Dragon is the only spacecraft safe enough for their return.” Musk also criticized Boeing’s Starliner, pointing out that NASA grounded it due to safety concerns.
Wilmore Denies Political Interference
Despite Elon Musk’s claims, astronaut Butch Wilmore denied that politics played any role in the delay. During a press conference from the ISS, Wilmore said, “From my side, politics has nothing to do with this.” He explained that extended stays in space are a normal part of missions and that contingency plans are always in place. When asked about Elon Musk’s claim that SpaceX could have rescued them earlier, Wilmore responded, “What Mr. Musk says is true, but we don’t know about any rescue offers or talks between SpaceX and the White House.”
The astronauts were only supposed to be up there for 8 days and now have been there for 8 months.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 5, 2025
SpaceX could have sent up another Dragon and brought them home 6 months ago, but the Biden White House (not NASA) refused to allow it.
President Trump asked to bring them back as… https://t.co/BVsHRn2Ocf
Astronauts Set to Return in March
Williams and Wilmore are now scheduled to return to Earth after the launch of Crew-10 on March 12. Once the new crew arrives, Crew-9, including Williams and Wilmore, will leave the ISS aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon and land off the coast of Florida.
Astronauts Reflect on Their Extended Mission
Reflecting on their long stay in space, Wilmore described the experience as “fascinating” and “amazing,” adding that he appreciated the opportunity to train on multiple spacecraft. Williams shared similar sentiments, expressing her excitement about finally returning home. She said, “Coming back in the spacecraft will be a new chapter, and we’re excited about it.”
Mission Sparks Debate on NASA’s Partnerships and Safety
The prolonged mission has sparked discussions about NASA’s reliance on commercial partners like SpaceX and Boeing, the safety of Boeing’s Starliner, and whether political factors influence decisions in space travel. The astronauts’ return will mark the end of a mission that has raised important questions about the future of human spaceflight.
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