NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore were originally scheduled to return home after completing an eight-day mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024. However, their return has been delayed, and they have now been in space for nearly nine months. Despite the extended duration of their mission, both astronauts have maintained a remarkably positive outlook regarding their current situation. Meanwhile, people on Earth are eagerly anticipating news of their financial compensation for this extended space mission. So, the question arises: what is the expected income for Williams and Wilmore after their long and extraordinary adventure aboard the ISS?

Below, we will explore the salaries of these two dedicated NASA astronauts, along with additional information about their ISS mission and experiences in space.

Current Status: Are the Two Astronauts Still in Space?

Yes, as of the latest updates, both Wilmore and Williams are still in space, actively awaiting their scheduled return flight back to Earth. This prolonged stay in space highlights the challenges and unpredictability that can accompany long-duration missions in low Earth orbit.

Anticipated Return: When Will the Astronauts Come Back to Earth?

According to reports from the Associated Press, Wilmore and Williams could potentially return to Earth by the end of March 2025. However, there is a prevailing sense of skepticism among experts and the public due to the fact that their return has been postponed multiple times already. The complexities of space travel often lead to unexpected delays, which can make this timeline uncertain.

The astronauts’ extended stay in space can largely be attributed to malfunctions in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which have included issues such as helium leaks and thruster failures. Initially, NASA had rescheduled their return for February 2025 on a SpaceX flight. However, complications arose when the SpaceX capsule required essential battery repairs, further extending their mission duration.

Financial Overview: How Much Will the Stranded Astronauts Make?

While NASA has not publicly disclosed the exact income figures for Wilmore and Williams from their ISS mission, insights from retired NASA astronaut Cady Coleman suggest that they may only receive a minimal amount, potentially around $4 per day. This highlights the distinction between the high-profile nature of space missions and the actual financial rewards astronauts receive during their time in orbit.

Coleman mentioned, “There is some small amount of money every day for incidentals that they end up being legally obligated to pay you,” emphasizing that the financial compensation for astronauts during missions can be surprisingly low, estimating it might just hover around $4 daily.

Despite the financial aspects, Williams and Wilmore continue to exhibit a positive attitude toward their mission. In a recent interview, Williams expressed that their experience “has brought a little attention” to the field of space exploration, showcasing the significance of their work.

Williams reflected on the dual nature of attention received, stating, “There are goods and bads to that,” but emphasized that the positive aspect is the growing public interest in their endeavors and the broader implications for future space missions.

Astronaut Compensation: How Much Money Do Astronauts Typically Make?

Reports indicate that civilian astronauts typically earn an annual salary ranging from $104,898 to $161,141. This range reflects the varying levels of experience, expertise, and responsibilities associated with different roles within NASA and similar organizations. The compensation structure for astronauts is an important consideration as it highlights both the financial and professional aspects of pursuing a career in space exploration.