THE first Briton to walk in space has to wait a little longer to come home.
Chichester-born astronaut Tim Peake, travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) in December, along with American Tim Kopra and Russian commander Yuri Malenchenko.
The trio were due to return to Earth on June 5 but will now come back on June 18, almost two weeks later than originally planned, as mission controllers seek to keep the ISS fully manned during a crew changeover.
Another three-strong crew will take off from Earth on June 21, three days after Major Peake’s return.
Tim said he was looking forward to coming home but added: “I get to enjoy the beautiful view of planet Earth for a little while longer.”
Tweeting his excitement on Saturday, he added: “I get to stay an extra few days in space. Looking forward to being back, but loving it here and a lot more to do!”
Major Peake blasted into space five months ago and in January became the first British person to walk in space.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here