NASA indefinitely delays return of Starliner to review propulsion data
NASA delays Starliner spacecraft return indefinitely to review propulsion data. Issues with propulsion system prompt further assessment. Emphasis on data-driven decisions for astronauts' safe return. Additional preparations and evaluations ongoing.
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NASA has indefinitely delayed the return of the Starliner spacecraft to Earth to review propulsion data. Originally scheduled for June 26, the return date has been pushed to an unspecified time in July. The decision follows meetings to assess the spacecraft's readiness for the return journey, involving high-level NASA leaders. Issues with the spacecraft's propulsion system, including helium system leaks and thruster failures, have prompted the need for further data review. NASA's Commercial Crew Program manager emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making. The delay allows for additional assessments and preparations, including planned spacewalks outside the International Space Station. While the extended stay at the station provides valuable mission data, concerns about the spacecraft's performance during the return trip persist. NASA aims to ensure a safe return for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, prioritizing thorough evaluations before authorizing the Starliner's departure from the station.
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13 comments- Starliner's current showstoppers all seem to be in its Service Module's propulsion systems
- Relatively little delta-V is needed to deorbit from the space station
- Rocket Labs has been zealously developing several "as a service" versions of their Photon satellite bus/kickstage: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab_Photon#Photon_versi...
SO: Could Rocket Labs quickly launch a "space tug" Photon, capable of replacing the Starliner Service Module's propulsion system well-enough for the undocking and controlled de-orbiting? Hard to imagine NASA allowing that with a manned Starliner. But is there any current capability to handle "dead" spacecraft near the ISS? Docking ports are very limited, and "drifting nearby" can be damned dangerous in orbit.
Even with Columbia and after, the discussion was always around sending a second shuttle up if the backflip inspection found a damaged heat shield. Maybe that's more understandable given the number of people involved on the Shuttle.
Still... What's the purpose of having that lifeboat there if it's never considered?
In the end, turning the crew into long duration stayers until a dragon capsule and suits to fit can turn up, or negotiate with the Russians may be a better outcome than repeating engineer fear of losing face a la "o" ring decision logic.
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