-
What caused the delays for Boeing's Starliner?
The delays for Boeing's Starliner were primarily due to multiple technical problems, including thruster failures and helium leaks. These issues prompted NASA to decide that it was unsafe for the astronauts to return on the Starliner, leading to the decision to send the spacecraft back uncrewed.
-
What are the safety concerns surrounding the Starliner?
Safety concerns regarding the Starliner arose after NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore reported strange pulsing noises from the spacecraft. However, these noises were later attributed to audio feedback issues rather than actual safety threats. Nonetheless, the technical problems encountered during the mission raised significant concerns about the spacecraft's reliability.
-
How does this impact NASA's future missions?
The delays and ongoing challenges with the Starliner program have implications for NASA's future missions. With the astronauts now set to return on a SpaceX vehicle, it highlights the need for reliable spacecraft to ensure the safety and success of future crewed missions to the ISS and beyond.
-
What are the next steps for the astronauts on the ISS?
The astronauts currently aboard the ISS, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, will remain on the station until February 2025. Their extended stay will allow them to continue important research and experiments, but they will be returning to Earth on a SpaceX vehicle instead of the Starliner.
-
When is the Starliner expected to return to Earth?
Boeing's Starliner is set to return to Earth uncrewed on September 7, 2024. This return marks a significant milestone for the Starliner program, albeit under challenging circumstances due to the technical issues faced during its mission.