NASA and Boeing have postponed the return of astronauts aboard the Starliner capsule due to thruster issues, now aiming for a June 26 landing at White Sands Spaceport.

Introduction


NASA and Boeing have announced a delay in the return of the Starliner space capsule from the International Space Station (ISS) to Earth. Originally scheduled for an earlier date, the mission is now set to conclude on June 26, allowing additional time to address issues with the capsule's thrusters.

Starliner Mission Delayed

Thruster Problems Cause Delay

Boeing's Starliner capsule, on its first crewed mission, encountered problems with its thrusters during docking attempts with the ISS. This issue has prompted NASA to postpone the return to Earth to ensure a safe and successful mission. "We want to give our crews a little more time to look at the data, do the analysis, and make sure we're really ready to go home," stated Steve Stich, NASA's Commercial Crew Program manager.

Mission Details and Adjustments

Extended Crew Flight Test Mission

The Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission, involving two astronauts, was initially planned to last seven days. However, due to the complications with the thrusters, the mission duration has been extended. The astronauts will now land at White Sands Spaceport in New Mexico on June 26, nearly three weeks after the initial launch.

Spacewalk and System Checks

A spacewalk initially scheduled for June 24, just two days before the Starliner's return, has also been postponed. NASA and Boeing are using this extra time to thoroughly assess and address the thruster issues observed during the June 6 docking attempt. During this attempt, five of the Starliner's 28 thrusters failed in the final docking stage, though four of them managed to fire, allowing the capsule to dock with the ISS a few hours later.

Addressing Technical Issues

Continued Testing and Analysis

In response to the thruster malfunctions, NASA and Boeing have conducted extensive tests. Over the past weekend, further tests were performed to better understand and resolve the issue. Despite one thruster failing to activate due to abnormally low pressure experienced during landing simulations, NASA remains confident. Stich noted that thorough analysis and testing continue to ensure the safety and readiness of the Starliner for its return journey.

Utilizing Robotic Assistance

The Canadarm2 robotic arm, equipped with a camera, has been employed to inspect the thrusters. This robotic assistance has provided valuable visual data, aiding engineers in their analysis and troubleshooting efforts.

Looking Ahead

Ensuring Safe Return

As NASA and Boeing continue to investigate and resolve the thruster issues, the safety of the crew remains the top priority. The additional time granted by the delay will ensure that all systems are thoroughly checked and operational for the Starliner's return to Earth.

Future Missions and Confidence

Steve Stich expressed confidence in the Starliner's systems following recent tests, stating, "We feel very confident moving forward." This delay, while necessary, underscores NASA and Boeing's commitment to meticulous analysis and safety in space travel.

Conclusion


The delay in the Starliner's return marks a critical step in ensuring the mission's success and the astronauts' safety. By addressing the thruster issues comprehensively, NASA and Boeing are laying the groundwork for future missions and continued advancements in space exploration. The rescheduled landing on June 26 at White Sands Spaceport represents the culmination of a carefully managed and highly scrutinized mission, promising new insights and improvements for the Starliner program.