In a significant setback for Boeing, NASA has announced that two astronauts currently at the International Space Station (ISS) will return to Earth aboard a SpaceX spacecraft, instead of the Boeing Starliner vehicle that brought them there in early June. The decision, announced by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, comes after a series of technical problems surfaced with the Starliner, raising concerns about its safety.
During the Starliner’s initial flight to the ISS, multiple thrusters experienced temporary malfunctions. Subsequent inspections revealed further helium leaks in the spacecraft’s propulsion system. While both NASA and Boeing had been assessing the severity of these issues, the agency ultimately decided to prioritize the safety of the astronauts, Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams.
The decision to use SpaceX for the return journey means that Wilmore and Williams will stay at the ISS for approximately eight months, a considerable extension from the initial eight-day mission planned for testing the Starliner. Their return is now expected to occur in early next year.
Boeing, which has invested over a decade and billions of dollars in developing the Starliner, expressed disappointment with NASA’s decision. The company had previously stated that data from their analysis indicated the Starliner was safe for the return flight. However, NASA’s concerns regarding the ongoing technical challenges with the spacecraft ultimately led to the agency’s decision.
This setback marks a significant blow to Boeing’s efforts to establish a reliable and competitive space transportation system. The Starliner program has faced repeated delays and setbacks, including software issues, faulty valves, and problems with the spacecraft’s parachute system. These issues have led to reported losses exceeding $1.4 billion for Boeing.
NASA’s decision not to allow Boeing to attempt the return of the astronauts has raised concerns about the future of the Starliner program. While Boeing has assured that they are committed to addressing the vehicle’s challenges, it remains unclear how the company will recover from this setback and regain the trust of NASA and the public.
