Nasa nears decision on what to do with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft
NASA is deciding on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft after significant test flight issues. Astronauts have exceeded their planned duration due to propulsion problems. Backup plans with SpaceX are considered for safe return.
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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. NASA and Boeing are focused on ensuring the astronauts can return safely on Starliner, although backup plans involving a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft have been considered. The Starliner mission, which launched on June 5, is crucial for establishing operational flights to the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA has extended the test flight to conduct further evaluations and gain confidence in the spacecraft's safety. Recent tests have revealed that some thrusters are experiencing reduced thrust, which is concerning for the return journey. Engineers are investigating the integrity of a Teflon seal in the thruster's oxidizer valve, which has shown signs of deformation. The spacecraft's thrusters are not required while docked at the ISS, but their performance is critical for undocking and reentry.
NASA aims to complete the mission with Starliner, as it is designed for crewed operations. Once certified, Starliner will join SpaceX's Crew Dragon in providing transportation to the ISS, enhancing the capabilities of NASA's commercial crew program.
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9 comments(I'd picked this up recently in a podcast discussing Starliner.)
The long delays on the ground indicated a high level of unexpected behavior. Not what you want in rocket systems.
That's the Goldilocks of failure. We are lucky.
Ah yes, working around a hardware design issue via a software update. That's never caused issues for Boeing before!
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NASA and Boeing troubleshoot Starliner spacecraft issues, stranding astronauts on the ISS. Return delayed with ongoing problems like helium leaks and thruster failures. Engineers aim for safe resolution amid past setbacks.
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Boeing and NASA may extend astronauts' stay on Starliner due to technical problems. Issues like helium leaks and thruster outages prompt ground tests. Despite setbacks, astronauts are safe on the ISS.
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.
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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.
Retired Astronaut Admits Boeing's Starliner Has Trapped Crew in Space
NASA astronauts are stranded in space due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner, delaying their return to Earth until at least August amid safety concerns and quality control criticisms.