I think the key takeaway here is understanding that Suni and Butch have a different perspective because they’re living the situation. From our point of view on Earth, “stuck” might seem like an accurate word because their mission timeline was drastically altered. We see the delay, the uncertainty, and maybe even a hint of potential danger.

However, for them, the daily reality is different. They’re still performing experiments, maintaining the ISS, and communicating with ground control. They’re essentially continuing their jobs, just in a slightly different context than originally planned. That feeling of contributing and being part of a larger scientific effort likely overrides any sense of being “stuck.”

Their desired narrative, as I see it, is one of professionalism and adaptability. They want to highlight the fact that they’re problem-solvers, not victims. They want to emphasize the importance of test flights and the inevitable challenges that come with pushing the boundaries of space exploration. It would not be surprising if they had to make changes on the fly. The most valuable piece here is not just the work being done, but that they are gathering so much data from a capsule and a test flight, which can be used for future space travel.

Basically, they’re asking us to shift our focus from the unforeseen circumstances to their ongoing commitment to the mission, whatever form it takes.