NASA is currently debating how and when to bring two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, back from the International Space Station (ISS).

They have been there since early June, and their planned eight-day mission has now extended to over two months, with the possibility of lasting up to eight months.

The decision is whether to bring them back soon using Boeing's Starliner or wait until next year to use SpaceX.

This is Boeing's first time launching astronauts after previous issues with empty Starliner flights.

Even before Wilmore and Williams launched on June 5, their capsule had a small helium leak, which was deemed stable and isolated.

However, as the Starliner approached the ISS, four more leaks and five thruster failures occurred.

Although the capsule docked safely, engineers are still investigating the root cause of the thruster malfunctions.

NASA has emphasized that Wilmore and Williams are not stranded and could use the Starliner as a lifeboat in an emergency.

If NASA decides to use SpaceX for their return, the Starliner would be released to open up a docking spot for a SpaceX Dragon capsule.

Wilmore and Williams would then fashion seats in the Dragon capsule currently docked at the ISS.

NASA might bump two astronauts from the next SpaceX launch to make room for Wilmore and Williams, who would have to stay until February.

Despite the challenges, NASA wants to continue using Boeing Starliners for astronaut rides, aiming to send one Dragon and one Starliner each year until the ISS is retired in 2030.

Boeing is confident in its capsule's safety but is prepared to bring it back empty if necessary.

The company has faced multiple issues with the Starliner over the years, costing over $1 billion.

NASA and Boeing are determined to find and fix the problems to ensure confidence in their aerospace capabilities.