A: It tells readers there is something important happening on that asteroid.
The two needing to get back to the asteroid in two weeks' time shows that something is happening on that asteroid. We don't have any evidence to say that Kenniston has not been trying hard enough. Also, there is nothing to suggest that they have to get back because they are not where they should be. Lastly, there is nothing in this detail that suggests Holk Or is going to take over the planet.
