After another Boeing letdown, NASA isn't ready to buy more Starliner missions
NASA is hesitant to commit to more missions for Boeing's Starliner due to technical issues. The first crewed test flight concludes soon, with uncertain timelines for future operational missions.
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NASA is currently hesitant to commit to additional missions for Boeing's Starliner spacecraft following a series of technical setbacks, including thruster issues and helium leaks. The Starliner is expected to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) soon, concluding its first crewed test flight, which has been delayed by seven years. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are preparing for the spacecraft's return, but the mission will not meet all its objectives due to unresolved technical problems. NASA has not yet decided if another test flight will be required before certifying Starliner for operational missions. Although NASA has tentatively scheduled Starliner's first operational mission for August 2025, this timeline is uncertain due to the need for redesigns in the propulsion system. Currently, NASA has only authorized three of the six potential operational missions for Starliner, and decisions regarding future missions will depend on the spacecraft's performance during its upcoming return and subsequent evaluations. In contrast, SpaceX has successfully launched multiple crewed missions under its contract with NASA, highlighting the delays faced by Boeing.
- NASA is cautious about committing to more Starliner missions due to ongoing technical issues.
- The Starliner spacecraft is set to conclude its first crewed test flight soon.
- NASA has only authorized three out of six potential operational missions for Starliner.
- The timeline for Starliner's first operational mission is uncertain, with a tentative date of August 2025.
- SpaceX has successfully launched multiple crewed missions, contrasting with Boeing's delays.
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