SpaceX Crew-10 Welcomed to ISS by “Alien” as Rescue Mission Arrives

The SpaceX Crew-10 mission successfully docked at the International Space Station (ISS) after a 28-hour journey, where they were met with a playful surprise. NASA astronaut Nick Hague, already aboard the ISS, donned an alien mask to welcome the arriving crew as they floated into the station.

The SpaceX Dragon capsule, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, was not only delivering four new astronauts but was also on a crucial mission to retrieve Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who had been stranded in orbit for nine months.

Joyful Reunion Aboard the ISS

Upon arrival, Wilmore opened the hatch and rang the station’s bell as the new crew entered one by one, exchanging hugs and handshakes with those already aboard.

“It was a wonderful day. Great to see our friends arrive,” Williams told Mission Control following the successful docking.

Over the next few days, Williams and Wilmore will help their new colleagues acclimate to life on the station before preparing for their long-awaited journey back to Earth.

Rescue Mission Following Starliner Issues

Williams and Wilmore were originally meant to stay on the ISS for just eight days. However, their return was delayed due to multiple issues with Boeing’s Starliner capsule, which left them waiting for an alternative ride home.

NASA ultimately decided to send SpaceX’s Crew-10 mission earlier than planned, following a series of delays, including a last-minute cancellation due to a hydraulic issue with the Falcon 9 rocket.

Crew-10 Replaces Departing Astronauts

The new arrivals—NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japan’s Takuya Onishi, and Russia’s Kirill Pesko—will replace Williams, Wilmore, and two other astronauts aboard the ISS. The incoming team will spend the next six months conducting scientific research and routine station maintenance.

Meanwhile, Williams and Wilmore, alongside cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov and astronaut Nick Hague, are expected to begin their return journey aboard the SpaceX Dragon capsule as early as Wednesday.

Political Controversy Surrounding the Mission

The extended stay of Williams and Wilmore became a political talking point, with claims from SpaceX owner Elon Musk and President Donald Trump suggesting the delay was politically motivated. NASA officials denied these allegations, stating that safety concerns with the Starliner were the sole reason for their prolonged mission.

Despite the unexpected nine-month stay, both astronauts have continued their duties aboard the ISS, conducting research and assisting with maintenance. Williams expressed her excitement about finally returning home to her family and two dogs, while Wilmore’s daughters shared their relief at his upcoming return.