NASA nears decision on what to do with Boeing's troubled Starliner spacecraft
NASA is evaluating Boeing's Starliner spacecraft after significant test flight issues, including propulsion problems. Astronauts have exceeded their planned duration, and safety assessments will determine future crewed mission certification.
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NASA is approaching a decision regarding Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which has encountered significant issues during its test flight. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been aboard the spacecraft for 51 days, exceeding their planned duration due to problems with the propulsion system, including overheating thrusters and helium leaks. Despite these challenges, NASA and Boeing intend to bring the astronauts back on Starliner, although backup plans involving SpaceX's Crew Dragon have been considered. The spacecraft launched on June 5 and is intended to facilitate future operational flights to the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA has extended the test flight to conduct further evaluations and ensure the safety of the crew's return. Recent tests on a thruster have revealed similar performance issues to those experienced in orbit, prompting engineers to assess the integrity of critical components, such as a Teflon seal in the oxidizer valve. The spacecraft's thrusters are essential for maneuvers during undocking and reentry, and engineers are focused on determining whether the affected components can withstand the remainder of the mission. The outcome of these evaluations will influence NASA's certification of Starliner for future crewed missions, which would provide the agency with two operational spacecraft for ISS flights, alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon.
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2 commentsThere's some discussion of sending them back with the next Space-X Dragon capsule. Boeing would prefer they fly the Starliner back down. No decision yet.
Boeing doesn't get to fly any more NASA-paid crewed flights until at least August 2025.
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Boeing, NASA consider extending astronauts' Starliner mission up to three months
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NASA astronauts from Boeing's Starliner may be stuck in space until August
Nasa astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore face extended stay in space due to Starliner technical issues. Boeing and NASA work on safety tests for potential return by late July.
When will Starliner come home?
Boeing's Starliner capsule, with NASA astronauts aboard, faces delays in returning due to technical issues. Engineers investigate problems for a safe return, gathering valuable data for future missions.