NASA is investigating Boeing Starliner’s unexplained flight issues, which include overheating thrusters and valve problems, after a recent journey to the International Space Station forced the spacecraft back to Earth. Despite billions of dollars invested in the project, Boeing has yet to achieve a successful mission under its belt.
NASA and Boeing are working to resolve the ‘in-flight anomalies‘ that plagued the Starliner spacecraft during its recent journey to the International Space Station. The issues, which included overheating thrusters and valve problems, forced NASA to bring the spacecraft back to Earth in September.
The Starliner’s problems have been a recurring theme since its maiden voyage last June. Despite pouring billions of dollars into the project, Boeing has yet to achieve a successful mission under its belt. The company has lost over $2 billion on the program so far, and its new CEO, Kelly Ortberg, has committed to seeing it through.
NASA’s Commercial Crew Program manager Steve Stich says that the agency is making progress toward crew certification of the Starliner, but it will likely take up to a year to get it ready for another launch attempt. The plan involves testing the spacecraft’s propulsion system and thermal protection upgrades, including barriers within the ‘doghouse‘ to regulate temperatures.
The next step in the process is unclear, but Stich suggests that it could happen later this year or early 2026. NASA will continue to investigate the ‘major in-flight propulsion system anomalies‘ and test the firing of key Starliner thrusters. The agency plans to also test a new helium system seal.
The Starliner is a spacecraft being developed by Boeing for NASA's Commercial Crew Program.
It is designed to carry astronauts to the International Space Station and provide emergency escape capabilities.
The spacecraft features advanced technology, including a crew capsule with six seats and a service module that provides power, propulsion, and life support systems.
The Starliner has undergone several uncrewed test flights, with the first crewed mission planned for 2023.
It is expected to play a crucial role in NASA's future spaceflight missions.
Despite the challenges, Boeing remains committed to the Starliner program. Stich says that he sees a commitment from Boeing to continue the program, but it will require significant investment and effort to overcome the technical issues.
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June 2024: Starliner launches successfully for the first time
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September 2024: Starliner returns to Earth due to technical issues
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Ongoing: NASA investigates in-flight anomalies and tests propulsion system upgrades
