NASA Astronaut Wilmore Accepts Partial Blame for Nine-Month Starliner Mission Delay

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams spoke to the media after their nine-month unexpected stay in space aboard Boeing's Starliner, which was intended to last just a week. Wilmore admitted partial responsibility for issues that arose during the mission, acknowledging he failed to ask critical questions as commander, although he emphasized that accountability lies with everyone involved, including Boeing and NASA. Williams supported Wilmore's view, stating that they are now focused on the lessons learned from this experience to ensure future success. Both astronauts expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share their story and the resilience they developed during their extended mission. They returned to Earth in March after technical problems delayed their departure, which included helium leaks and thruster issues. The astronauts are now adapting back to life on Earth, with Williams noting her improving health and physical activity.