US astronauts stuck in space to return to Earth next year

(Patria) - NASA scientists have decided to bring back two American astronauts to Earth next year, who were supposed to spend eight days on the International Space Station but ended up staying for 80 days, writes the BBC.

Sunita Williams (58) and Barry Butch Wilmore (61) went into space in Boeing's new Starliner spacecraft in early June.

They were supposed to have an eight-day stay on the International Space Station, but instead spent almost 80 days in orbit, writes the BBC.

However, the spacecraft had technical problems, and it was assessed that they needed to remain in space.

The spacecraft itself, as the BBC writes, had problems with several thrusters and its helium systems leaked – this was its first crewed mission.

Over the past few months, NASA and Boeing have been assessing whether the capsule is safe enough to bring the astronauts home.

NASA scientists have finally made the decision to bring the two American astronauts back to Earth next year.