NASA likely to significantly delay the launch of Crew 9 due to Starliner issues
NASA is delaying the Crew 9 mission to September 24 due to concerns over Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, including thruster failures and software issues, while considering a Crew Dragon for astronaut return.
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NASA is expected to delay the Crew 9 mission to the International Space Station, originally scheduled for August 18, to September 24, due to ongoing issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. The delay stems from concerns about the spacecraft's ability to safely return astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to Earth after five thruster failures during a previous mission. NASA has not publicly confirmed the delay but is reportedly considering launching with fewer crew members as discussions about Starliner's viability continue. The agency has been exploring the option of using a Crew Dragon spacecraft for the return, prioritizing crew safety. Additionally, the current flight software on Starliner lacks the capability for automated undocking and re-entry, which raises further concerns about its readiness for crewed missions. This situation has led to internal disagreements at NASA regarding Starliner's safety, delaying a critical Flight Readiness Review. The Crew 9 delay allows more time for NASA to assess Starliner's flight-worthiness and address the software issues.
- NASA plans to delay the Crew 9 mission to September 24 due to Starliner issues.
- Concerns include thruster failures and the spacecraft's ability to safely return astronauts.
- NASA is considering using a Crew Dragon for the return instead of Starliner.
- Starliner's flight software currently lacks automated undocking and re-entry capabilities.
- Internal disagreements at NASA have delayed a critical safety review of Starliner.
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4 comments>Three separate, well-placed sources have confirmed to Ars that the current flight software on board Starliner cannot perform an automated undocking from the space station and entry into Earth’s atmosphere.
When I read this in the article I shouted "What!" with mouth dropped open. Everyone outside Boeing (when NASA learned of this is unclear) thought that, if Wilmore and Williams have to return home by Crew Dragon, at least the Starliner they flew up could be brought down remotely like the two unmanned test craft were. Remote operation is, I presume, a requirement of the Commercial Crew contract.
The end of the article strongly hints that said inability contributed to Boeing's remarkably public effort to persuade NASA to return Wilmore and Williams in Starliner.
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