NASA has faced setbacks with Boeing’s Starliner capsule, including helium leaks and thruster problems, leading to the decision to delay the return of the capsule from the International Space Station (ISS). After years of delays and two recent scrubbed launch attempts, Starliner finally launched on June 5, 2024, with NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams on board. Despite two thrusters failing during the flight, the capsule managed to reach the ISS and deliver cargo. However, five small leaks on the service module were also detected, prompting further safety checks.
Planned Return Date Cancelled
Due to conflicting timelines with a series of planned spacewalks on the ISS and the need to review propulsion and system data, NASA announced the cancellation of the planned departure on Wednesday, June 26. Instead, the agency will continue testing the capsule to understand its issues and determine if any fixes are possible. Although supplies are sufficient on the station, there isn’t an urgent need to bring the astronauts back to Earth at this time.
The first crewed flight of Starliner was intended to validate the spacecraft as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program (CCP) and potentially work alongside SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for future cargo and crew deliveries to the ISS. This mission marks the second time the Starliner has flown to the ISS and the third flight test overall. The previous uncrewed test flight in December 2019 failed to reach the ISS, but improvements were made based on NASA’s recommendations for the successful OFT-2 flight on May 22, 2022.
Despite the setbacks and ongoing issues, NASA officials have noted that Starliner is performing well while docked to the space station. The astronauts aboard are assisting with station operations and completing necessary objectives for NASA’s certification of the spacecraft. Mission managers are carefully evaluating future return opportunities for Starliner while ensuring readiness for the astronauts’ return.
NASA is planning to conduct a readiness review and media teleconference with mission leadership to discuss the next steps for Starliner. The spacecraft is cleared for return in case of an emergency on the ISS that would require the crew to depart and return to Earth promptly. While challenges have arisen during this mission, NASA remains focused on resolving the issues and preparing for future missions with the Starliner capsule.
NASA’s decision to delay the return of Boeing’s Starliner capsule from the ISS is a strategic move to address technical concerns and ensure the safety and success of the mission. Despite the setbacks, the agency is committed to resolving the issues, conducting thorough reviews, and preparing for future crewed missions with the spacecraft. The collaboration between NASA and Boeing will continue to advance space exploration efforts and strengthen partnerships in the aerospace industry.
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