Technical Issues with Boeing Starliner Delay Return of Astronauts
NASA is under significant pressure with a critical 19-day deadline to ensure the safe return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS) following technical difficulties with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
Unforeseen Technical Problems
The Starliner has faced unexpected problems that have postponed the astronauts’ return. NASA now has a tight timeframe to address these issues before the Crew-9 mission arrives.
On June 5, 2024, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Boeing’s inaugural crewed flight under its commercial program. This mission was crucial for evaluating the Starliner’s performance and marked a significant milestone for Boeing.
Thruster and Helium Leak Issues
As the spacecraft approached the ISS, five of its 28 thrusters failed unexpectedly. Additionally, engineers detected five minor helium leaks in the service module of the Starliner, affecting its ability to safely undock and return to Earth.
Uncertain Timeline for Astronauts’ Return
Steve Stich, who oversees NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, mentioned that the timeline for Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s return remains uncertain. The spacecraft’s safe re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere depends on the functionality of its thrusters and helium systems, with any issues posing potential risks to the astronauts’ safety.
Urgent Docking Port Clearance Needed
Complicating the situation is the need to manage docking ports on the ISS, as the Starliner needs to be undocked to make way for the Crew-9 mission. The Crew-9 mission, scheduled to launch no earlier than August 18, will send NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Nick Hague, and Stephanie Wilson, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Gorbunov, to the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
Exploring Alternative Return Options
If the Starliner remains non-operational, NASA may need to explore alternative options for returning Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to Earth, potentially using a SpaceX Dragon capsule.
Continued Mission Activities
While aboard the ISS, both astronauts have continued their mission activities and have been updating Earth on their research and the Starliner’s status through space-to-ground communications.
On July 10, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore provided media updates about their extended mission and ongoing efforts to resolve the spacecraft issues.
