NASA is expected to provide a crucial update today regarding the Boeing Starliner mission, which will determine the next steps for astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been aboard the International Space Station (ISS) since June 6. The update will be shared during a media teleconference scheduled for 1 p.m. EDT (10:30 p.m. IST), where NASA will discuss ongoing issues with the Starliner spacecraft and possible strategies for safely bringing the astronauts back to Earth.
Background
The Boeing Crew Flight Test (CFT), which launched on June 5, was Boeing’s inaugural attempt to use its new Starliner capsule for carrying astronauts. This mission was part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, aimed at increasing access to low Earth orbit through partnerships with private companies. While the launch was successful, the mission quickly ran into problems.
After the Starliner docked with the ISS, the spacecraft started facing major technical issues, including problems with its thrusters and helium leaks. These complications have hindered its ability to return the astronauts as planned.
NASA’s Next Steps
NASA is currently assessing whether the Starliner is ready for a safe return. According to Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, the goal is still to use the Starliner to bring Williams and Wilmore back, but alternative plans are being prepared as well.
One alternative involves using SpaceX’s upcoming Crew 9 mission, now set for September 25, 2024, after a delay from its original mid-August date. This mission could potentially bring Williams and Wilmore back to Earth in early 2025. This plan would involve modifying the Crew 9 Dragon spacecraft to accommodate the two astronauts along with the Crew 9 team, extending their stay on the ISS until February 2025.
Technical Challenges and Considerations
The primary focus remains on fixing the Starliner’s technical issues to ensure a safe return. Key challenges include reconfiguring the spacecraft’s software to address the problems. NASA is also considering an uncrewed undocking of the Starliner to make necessary repairs, which might involve temporarily transferring the astronauts to a Dragon spacecraft.
The Starliner mission, initially expected to be a milestone for Boeing, has turned into a complex and extended operation. Today’s update from NASA could provide important details on how the mission will proceed and how Williams and Wilmore will be safely brought back.
How to Follow the Update
The media teleconference will be streamed live on NASA’s website. The outcome of this briefing will be crucial in determining the future of the mission and the safe return of the astronauts.
