Boeing’s crew spacecraft, Starliner, will remain docked with the International Space Station (ISS) until at least August, according to NASA. The mission has been placed on hold while both Boeing and NASA investigate issues that occurred during the flight. The Starliner capsule, named “Calypso,” has been in space for 50 days so far and is carrying NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams.
The extension of the flight test for Starliner is unprecedented, making it difficult to compare to other human spaceflights. However, both NASA and Boeing have emphasized that Wilmore and Williams are not stranded in space. In the event of an emergency, the spacecraft is safe to return, and the astronauts are using their extra time on the ISS to assist with tasks and work alongside the rest of the crew.
The decision to extend the mission is due to the need for NASA to conduct a thorough review, which will take place in the first week of August. Only after this review will the agency schedule Starliner’s return. NASA’s Commercial Crew manager, Steve Stich, stated during a press conference that while progress is being made, they are not yet ready to set a return date.
Boeing and NASA have been working together to address the issues with Starliner. Testing of the spacecraft’s malfunctioning propulsion system took place in White Sands, New Mexico. The next steps involve the completion of the thruster dissection and planning for docked test firings. An integrated assessment of all the data will then be conducted, followed by a final review known as the “Agency Flight Test Readiness Review.”
Despite the challenges faced by Starliner, NASA remains focused on bringing Wilmore and Williams home using the spacecraft. However, the agency does have contingency plans in place in case an alternative method is required. This could involve using SpaceX’s Dragon capsule to bring back the NASA astronauts.
In conclusion, the extended mission of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft highlights the complexities and risks involved in human spaceflight. NASA and Boeing are working diligently to resolve the issues and ensure a safe return for the astronauts. The unique circumstances of this mission make it difficult to compare with other spaceflights, but the safety and well-being of the crew remain the top priority.
 until at least August, as NASA and Boeing investigate issues that occurred during the flight. Despite the challenges, NASA is focused on bringing the astronauts home safely, with contingency plans in place if needed. This extended mission underscores the complexities and risks of human spaceflight, with the safety and well-being of the crew as the top priority.){kind=link}