NASA is facing a critical decision regarding the fate of two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. Originally, their mission was planned for just eight days, but due to ongoing concerns about the Starliner's propulsion system, their return has been delayed indefinitely.

NASA is set to decide on Saturday whether the astronauts should return to Earth on the Starliner as initially planned, or if they should wait until February to return aboard a SpaceX vehicle. If NASA determines that the Starliner is not safe for their return, the spacecraft would return to Earth without any passengers, leaving Wilmore and Williams to remain on the ISS for an extended mission of up to eight months.

This scenario would represent a significant setback for Boeing, whose Starliner has already faced numerous delays and challenges. SpaceX, which has been successfully ferrying astronauts to and from the ISS for the past four years, could once again step in as the backup option.

NASA's decision-making committee, with NASA Administrator Bill Nelson involved, is expected to announce the verdict after a meeting on Saturday, potentially during a news conference scheduled for 1:00 pm (1700 GMT). The decision will have significant implications for both Boeing and the future of the Starliner program, as well as the astronauts' mission timeline.