NASA’s Contingency Plan for Boeing’s Starliner Astronauts

Key Issues with Starliner

Boeing‘s Starliner astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, were successfully delivered to the International Space Station (ISS) in June. However, the spacecraft has encountered propulsion system issues. These problems have raised concerns about its ability to safely return to Earth. Initially planned as an eight-day mission, it has been extended due to these technical difficulties.

A Boeing spokesperson mentioned that if NASA opts to change Starliner’s mission, the company is prepared to configure the spacecraft for an uncrewed return. Therefore, this potential shift in plans highlights the critical nature of the issues Starliner astronauts are facing.

Propulsion System Challenges Affecting Starliner Astronauts

The Starliner experienced thruster failures during its approach to the ISS in June. Additionally, there were helium leaks used to pressurize the thrusters. As a result, Boeing is conducting an extensive testing campaign to diagnose and fix these issues. The latest test data has revealed new concerns, causing debate within NASA about the spacecraft’s safety for Boeing’s Starliner astronauts.

Decision-Making Process for Starliner Astronauts’ Return

NASA’s Internal Discussions on Starliner

During a recent meeting of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which oversees the Starliner astronauts project, officials expressed differing opinions on whether to use the spacecraft for the astronauts’ return. For instance, Steve Stich, the program chief, noted that the decision was not clear, with significant concerns being raised.

Ken Bowersox, NASA’s space operations chief, added that there was no definitive conclusion, reflecting the complexities and risks involved. Consequently, NASA has been granting Boeing additional time to conduct more tests and gather data to build a stronger case for Starliner’s safety for Starliner astronauts.

Potential Use of Crew Dragon for Starliner Astronauts

As a contingency plan, NASA is in discussions with SpaceX to keep two seats vacant on an upcoming Crew Dragon mission for Boeing’s Starliner astronauts, Wilmore and Williams. This plan would be a significant setback for Boeing. It would highlight ongoing struggles in competing with SpaceX’s more reliable Crew Dragon spacecraft, which received NASA approval for astronaut flights in 2020.

Technical Setbacks and Costs for Starliner

Financial Implications for Boeing

Starliner’s development has faced numerous setbacks, both managerial and technical. These setbacks have cost Boeing approximately $1.6 billion since 2016. Moreover, the current test mission alone has cost the company $125 million, underscoring the high stakes involved for Starliner astronauts.

Technical Discoveries Impacting Starliner Astronauts

Recent ground tests revealed that the overheating of Starliner’s thrusters caused Teflon seals to warp. This obstructed propellant tubes and weakened thrust. Consequently, this discovery has increased NASA’s discomfort with relying on Starliner for the return of Boeing’s Starliner astronauts.

Final Thoughts

NASA is expected to make a final decision soon regarding the return of Boeing’s Starliner astronauts. If deemed necessary, the astronauts may return on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon in February 2025. This situation underscores the importance of rigorous testing and safety assessments in space missions, highlighting the challenges and competition in the aerospace industry.