Clarification on the ISS Mission, SpaceX Involvement and Astronaut Safety

I am writing to address recent statements you have made regarding NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the International Space Station (ISS) since June 2024. Your assertion that they were “abandoned” by President Biden and that SpaceX had to “rescue” them is not accurate, and I’d like to clarify the facts surrounding their mission. The Reason for Their Extended Stay Williams and Wilmore were originally scheduled for a short-term mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. However, due to technical issues with Starliner’s propulsion system, their return was delayed as NASA and Boeing worked on solutions to ensure a safe journey home. SpaceX’s Involvement in Their Return SpaceX was not called in as a last-minute rescue operation but has been part of NASA’s ongoing ISS operations for years. NASA and SpaceX launched Crew-10 on March 14, 2025, a previously scheduled mission, which also facilitates Williams and Wilmore’s return. Their departure from the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule is expected in the coming days, depending on weather conditions. What the Astronauts Have Actually Said Williams and Wilmore have personally refuted claims that they were stranded or abandoned: • Williams stated: “We don’t feel abandoned or stranded. We have been in constant communication with NASA, and plans for our return have been in place since the issues with Starliner emerged.” • Wilmore added: “Our situation has been mischaracterized. We are well-supported and have continued our work without interruption.” Throughout their extended stay, they have had consistent resupply missions from SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, ensuring they had food, water, and necessary equipment while awaiting their return. Why This Matters Misinformation about space missions can undermine public trust in NASA and commercial space partners like SpaceX and Boeing. Williams and Wilmore were never abandoned or in danger; they have been part of a coordinated and carefully managed mission extension. I urge you to acknowledge the facts so that the public can have an accurate understanding of the situation. America’s space program thrives on bipartisan support, collaboration, and science—not political misinformation.