CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida – A planned Nasa-SpaceX mission to facilitate the return of two stranded astronauts back to Earth has been delayed. The Falcon 9 launch from Florida’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station was postponed due to a hydraulic ground issue, with a potential launch opportunity now on Thursday.

The mission aimed to transport four new crew members to the International Space Station (ISS) and prepare for the return of astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore. Williams and Wilmore have been stuck at the ISS for over nine months after their initial return plans on a Boeing spacecraft were aborted due to safety concerns.

Scheduled for a Wednesday launch, the mission would have allowed Williams and Wilmore to return to Earth as early as Sunday. However, SpaceX encountered a hydraulics issue with one of the clamp arms, resulting in the scrubbed launch. Engineers are working to address the problem to potentially launch on Thursday.

Despite the prolonged stay at the ISS, Williams and Wilmore have maintained a positive outlook, expressing their readiness for unexpected challenges. Williams described space as her “happy place,” although admitting to missing her family and pets. Wilmore highlighted the issues with the Starliner spacecraft that deterred them from flying back home.

The astronauts emphasized the importance of their training in preparing for unforeseen circumstances, stating their willingness to stay in space for an extended period if necessary. Williams reflected on the experience of being in space, noting how it has deepened her appreciation for Earth and the need to protect the planet.

As SpaceX continues efforts to address the technical issue for a potential Thursday launch, Williams and Wilmore remain resilient in their unique situation, embodying the spirit of exploration and adaptability required for space travel.