NASA Astronauts To Be Paid Shocking Amount After Being Stuck In Space For Over Nine Months

NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams embarked on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024. ​

Astronauts’ mission explained.

Their assignment was initially slated for a brief eight-day duration. ​

However, unforeseen technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft extended their stay. ​

This unexpected extension resulted in a prolonged nine-month mission aboard the ISS. ​

Throughout this period, both astronauts maintained high spirits and continued their scientific endeavors.

They conducted over 150 experiments, contributing significantly to space research.

Their resilience became a testament to human endurance in space exploration.

Despite the mission’s challenges, they adapted to the prolonged isolation.

They also witnessed significant Earth events from their unique vantage point. ​

Rescue mission detailed.

Their return journey was planned to culminate in a splashdown off the Florida coast. ​

They expressed cautious excitement about re-entry and a positive outlook on their experience. ​

Both astronauts contested the notion that they were “stranded” or “abandoned.” ​

They emphasized the challenging nature of human spaceflight. ​

Their return marks the end of a unique chapter in space exploration. ​

They look forward to reuniting with their families and resuming normal life on Earth. ​

Astronauts’ shocking salary unveiled.

As federal employees, their compensation structure is predetermined.​

Astronauts typically fall under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. ​

Wilmore and Williams are classified at the GS-15 level. ​

This classification corresponds to an annual salary ranging from $125,133 to $162,672. ​

Given their extended mission, their prorated earnings amount to approximately $93,850 to $122,004. ​

This calculation reflects their nine-month tenure in space. ​

Additionally, astronauts receive a modest daily allowance for incidentals. ​

This allowance is approximately $4 per day. ​

Over nine months, this totals just over $1,000. ​

Overtime policy exposed.

Notably, there is no provision for overtime pay, regardless of mission duration. ​

Retired astronaut Cady Coleman highlighted this policy. ​

She stated that astronauts receive their standard salary without additional overtime compensation. ​

This approach underscores NASA’s standardized compensation framework.​

It ensures uniformity across various mission scenarios.​

Public await return of stranded astronauts.

Despite the mission’s unexpected extension, financial remuneration remains consistent.​

This policy reflects the unique nature of astronaut duties and expectations.​

Wilmore and Williams’ experience exemplifies dedication beyond monetary incentives.​