Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Potential Return Date Adjustment
NASA officials have announced that astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, currently on the ISS via Boeing’s Starliner, might return to Earth in February 2025 using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon if Starliner remains unsafe.
Extended Mission Duration
Originally planned as a weeklong mission, the stay of the first NASA astronauts to fly with Boeing could extend to eight months due to the ongoing issues with Starliner’s safety.
Contingency Plans with SpaceX
NASA has been discussing with SpaceX the possibility of leaving two seats empty on an upcoming Crew Dragon launch to accommodate Wilmore and Williams if needed.
Decision Timeline
A final decision on the Starliner’s viability is expected later this month, following a detailed assessment of the propulsion system problems experienced in June.
Ground Testing Efforts
Boeing has been conducting ground tests at the White Sands Testing Facility to replicate and understand the thruster issues and helium leaks encountered during the Starliner’s mission.
Planning for Crew-9 Mission
NASA and SpaceX are planning for the Crew-9 mission, potentially launching in September with only two astronauts to allow for the return of the Starliner crew.
Intense Discussions and Confidence
Steve Stich, NASA’s Commercial Crew Program manager, reported intense discussions with Boeing, which remains confident in the spacecraft’s safety following extensive ground testing.
Background on Boeing and SpaceX Contracts
Boeing and SpaceX were awarded contracts in 2014 to provide rides to the ISS, with SpaceX succeeding in 2020 and Boeing facing numerous delays and technical setbacks.
Testing and Troubleshooting
NASA and Boeing have been troubleshooting issues such as thruster power loss and helium leaks to ensure the Starliner’s safety for future missions.
