<h4>Context: Astronauts Stranded on ISS</h4><p>Two <strong>NASA astronauts</strong>, <strong>Sunita Williams</strong> and <strong>Barry “Butch” Wilmore</strong>, are currently staying on the <strong>International Space Station (ISS)</strong>.</p><p>Their return, originally planned for <strong>June 2024</strong>, has been extended until <strong>February 2025</strong> due to unforeseen technical issues.</p><h4>The Boeing Starliner Spacecraft</h4><p>The astronauts traveled to the <strong>ISS</strong> aboard <strong>Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft</strong>, which was undertaking its <strong>first crewed mission</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li>The <strong>Starliner</strong> is designed for transporting astronauts to space.</li><li>It features a dedicated <strong>crew capsule</strong> and robust <strong>reentry capability</strong>.</li><li>A <strong>non-reusable service module</strong> provides essential life support and propulsion systems.</li></ul></div><h4>Technical Issues and Concerns</h4><p><strong>NASA</strong> is actively working to resolve the various <strong>technical issues</strong> identified with the <strong>Starliner spacecraft</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>These issues raise significant concerns regarding:</p><ul><li><strong>Astronaut safety</strong> during transit and return.</li><li>The <strong>International Space Station's (ISS) capacity</strong> to host extended stays.</li><li>The potential <strong>effects of prolonged space travel</strong> on human health and well-being.</li></ul></div><h4>Comparison with Other Crewed Spacecraft</h4><p>The <strong>Boeing Starliner</strong> is one of several spacecraft designed to provide crewed transport services to orbit.</p><div class='info-box'><p>Other notable spacecraft offering similar services include:</p><ul><li><strong>SpaceX’s Crew Dragon</strong>, developed by <strong>SpaceX</strong>.</li><li><strong>NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2</strong>, which was a demonstration mission for the <strong>Crew Dragon</strong>.</li></ul></div><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> This incident highlights the complexities of <strong>commercial crew programs</strong> and the critical importance of <strong>redundancy and safety protocols</strong> in space exploration. It's relevant for <strong>Science & Technology (GS-III)</strong>.</p></div>