Extended mission and ongoing testing
Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams have been aboard the ISS since early June, with their mission initially scheduled for eight days but potentially extending beyond eight months.Testing is ongoing, with Boeing confident in its spacecraft, while NASA remains divided. A decision is expected next week.
This mission marks Boeing’s first crewed launch after prior issues with empty Starliners, including software problems. Even before Wilmore and Williams launched on June 5, their capsule experienced a small helium leak, deemed stable and isolated. However, as Starliner neared the space station, additional leaks and thruster failures occurred. While the capsule docked successfully and four thrusters ultimately functioned, the root cause of the malfunctions remains unclear. The thrusters are crucial for the capsule’s deorbit burn, and any additional failures could jeopardise crew safety.
NASA’s contingency plan
NASA emphasises that Wilmore and Williams are not stranded but safe on the space station, with the Starliner available as a lifeboat in an emergency. If NASA opts for a SpaceX return, Starliner would be detached to free up a docking slot for a new Dragon capsule. Wilmore and Williams would then have to wait until February for their return, as space station missions typically last at least six months.
Past experiences and strategic outlook
NASA has faced similar situations before. Astronaut Frank Rubio and his Russian crewmates extended their stay due to a Soyuz capsule leak. Wilmore and Williams, both experienced astronauts, have adapted to the extended mission, receiving additional supplies recently.
According to the reports, NASA’s strategy includes using both Boeing and SpaceX for crew transport to the ISS, providing redundancy and safety. Despite setbacks, NASA remains committed to using Starliners alongside Dragons for crew missions until the ISS is retired in 2030. Boeing, despite facing delays and costs exceeding $1 billion, maintains confidence in Starliner’s capabilities.
The decision on the return plan will be made based on ongoing evaluations and the need to ensure the safety of the astronauts.
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