NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore have been stranded in space for 152 days due to a malfunction of their Boeing Starliner spacecraft, raising concerns about their health. Recent photos highlight significant weight loss for the astronauts, who have been unable to return after the failure of the Starliner to bring them back to Earth following their mission's start.

Amid growing concerns, NASA has decided to conduct a crewless return for the troubled Boeing Starliner to address the technical issues without risking additional crew members. The spacecraft, which was initially planned to support human missions, has faced numerous setbacks, including this recent malfunction that left Williams, 59, and Wilmore, 61, unable to return.

These developments have prompted NASA to prioritize the safe recovery of the astronauts while investigating the problems plaguing the Starliner's systems. Further details regarding the timeline and procedure for the astronauts' return are still pending as NASA works with Boeing to resolve the situation.

While efforts are underway to ensure the safety of Williams and Wilmore, the broader impact on Boeing's reputation and future missions is under scrutiny, as alternative plans like the AstroForge's upcoming asteroid flyby mission proceed independently.