Enlarge / Boeing’s Starliner is launched on an Atlas V rocket at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. (credit: Trevor Mahlmann)
Concerns Surrounding NASA’s Starliner Mission
In a recent press briefing, NASA representatives highlighted ongoing tensions within the agency regarding the reliability of the Starliner spacecraft for safely transporting two experienced astronauts—Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams—from the International Space Station back to Earth.
Collaboration with SpaceX on Potential Rescues
The agency confirmed critical details previously noted by Ars, specifically that discussions have been taking place with SpaceX for several weeks about organizing a potential rescue for Wilmore and Williams. Additionally, it was announced that the Crew-9 mission launch has been postponed until September 24 to accommodate these new developments. It was also disclosed that due to current software limitations, the Starliner is unable to autonomously undock.
Diverging Opinions Among Engineers
Ken Bowersox, NASA’s head of human spaceflight operations and a former astronaut himself, stated that no definitive conclusions have yet been reached regarding how Wilmore and Williams will return home. He noted there has been productive debate among engineers from both NASA—acting as the client—and Boeing—the company responsible for developing and managing Starliner—concerning the effectiveness of 28 reaction control system thrusters essential for precise navigation and orientation of the spacecraft.
This situation underscores significant challenges facing teams as they strive towards ensuring both safety and reliability in future crewed space missions.
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