With NASA astronauts currently docked at the International Space Station for a longer duration than expected, the agency’s leadership is now considering potential alternatives to using Boeing’s Starliner for the crew’s return to Earth. Even though Boeing’s spacecraft remains the primary option for the return of the crew, officials are open to exploring other possibilities as required.
Boeing’s Starliner capsule named “Calypso” has been in space for 36 days and counting due to its extended stay at the ISS. The decision regarding the return of the capsule hinges on the results of testing the faulty propulsion system that have been identified. NASA and Boeing are currently conducting additional testing in New Mexico to ensure the spacecraft’s readiness for the return journey.
While addressing the press, NASA’s Commercial Crew manager Steve Stich emphasized that the primary option for returning NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams is the Starliner spacecraft. Stich highlighted that currently, there is no pressing need to consider SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as an alternative means for bringing back the astronauts. However, contingency plans involving a SpaceX capsule are being kept in mind in case Starliner’s return is needed without crew onboard.
Ground Testing and Inspections
Boeing and NASA initiated testing of Starliner’s thruster technology on July 3 at White Sands, New Mexico. The testing aims to replicate an issue that led to the shutdown of up to five thrusters on Calypso during an earlier maneuver. The teams are diligently inspecting the test thrusters to ensure their performance and safety for the return journey.
Challenges and Planning
Boeing’s Mark Nappi, vice president of the Starliner program, mentioned during the press conference that challenges in replicating the flight temperatures have been encountered. The team is working to address any potential damage to the thrusters and planning for different scenarios depending on the testing outcomes. The goal is to understand the thrusters’ performance and readiness for undocking and returning to Earth.
Both Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, the NASA astronauts aboard the ISS, expressed confidence in returning on the Starliner spacecraft. They voiced trust in the ongoing testing processes and data collection that will ultimately determine the safety and success of their journey back to Earth.
Boeing’s Starliner, once considered a competitor to SpaceX’s Dragon, has faced setbacks and delays that have positioned it as a secondary option for NASA missions. The agency plans to alternate between using SpaceX and Boeing for crewed trips to the ISS, with the recent Starliner crew flight test being a critical milestone for Boeing’s certification to conduct operational missions starting early next year.
The exploration of alternatives for returning NASA astronauts from the International Space Station reflects the meticulous planning and commitment to ensuring the safety and success of crewed missions to space. By evaluating different options, conducting rigorous testing, and maintaining confidence in spacecraft capabilities, NASA and its partners continue to push the boundaries of space exploration with a focus on reliability and innovation.