SpaceX capsule docks with ISS as stranded Nasa astronauts prepare return

The pair are due to begin their long delayed journey back to Earth in coming days.

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The pair were due to be on the ISS for only eight days, but because of technical issues with the experimental spacecraft they arrived on, they have been there for more than nine months.

The astronauts are due to begin their journey back to Earth later this week. Steve Stich, manager of Nasa's commercial crew programme said he was delighted at the prospect.

"Butch and Suni have done a great job and we are excited to bring them back," he said.

Live footage showed the SpaceX Crew Dragon docking with the ISS and opening a hatch. Shortly after 0545 GMT, the astronauts embraced and hugged their counterparts in zero gravity.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8y62jrwgwo

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