No one knew if they could get the spacecraft back to Earth, or if they could survive long enough to return.

VOA: special.2009.07.22

If they are not chosen for a trial after a day, they are not required to return.

VOA: special.2009.08.31

They do not want to return too soon and then be forced out again if fighting resumes.

VOA: standard.2009.06.19