The astronauts, Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, were stranded on the ISS after their Boeing Starliner spacecraft experienced technical difficulties. NASA initially planned for their trip to last only eight days, but due to the issues, the mission has been extended to several months. The unmanned Starliner is scheduled to return to Earth soon, but without the crew. Instead, a new plan has been put in place to bring the astronauts home safely.
The rescue mission will be led by Col. Nick Hague, a Space Force Guardian with extensive experience in space missions. He will be joined by Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov on NASA’s Crew-9 mission. This mission is set to launch no earlier than September 24, 2024. Hague and Gorbunov will travel to the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and bring Wilmore and Williams back to Earth in February 2025.
This mission is significant because it marks the first time a Space Force Guardian will launch into space for such an important operation. Although the Space Force does not specifically train astronauts, many of NASA’s astronauts have military backgrounds, including Hague. Before joining the Space Force, Hague was an Air Force officer with previous spaceflight experience. This will be his third launch and second time in space.
The decision to have Hague lead the mission was made by NASA’s chief astronaut, Joe Acaba. NASA needed someone with previous spaceflight experience and the ability to work closely with a Russian cosmonaut to ensure the safety of the crew and the ISS. Hague and Gorbunov were chosen for their unique skills and experience, making them the best candidates for this mission.
While the Space Force’s primary mission is to protect and defend America’s satellite fleet and interests in space, this operation highlights the collaboration between NASA and the Space Force. However, it also points to the public’s confusion about the roles of NASA and the Space Force. The two agencies have different missions, but their work sometimes overlaps, especially when military personnel are involved in space exploration.
This mission could also have a positive impact on the Space Force’s public image and recruiting efforts. Seeing a Space Force officer lead a high-profile NASA mission might inspire young people to consider a career in the Space Force. As Todd Harrison, a space and defense policy expert, noted, the extra attention could help recruit the next generation of Space Force Guardians.
In summary, NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who have been stuck on the ISS for months, will soon be brought back home by a Space Force Guardian. Col. Nick Hague, along with Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, will lead the rescue mission, marking the first time a Space Force officer has taken on such a role. This mission underscores the collaboration between NASA and the Space Force and could inspire future recruits to join the Space Force.
