FOLLOW US

The Boeing Starliner capsule “Calypso” has now been stuck in space for 60 days, far beyond its scheduled nine-day mission. 

The mission has been extended several times while Boeing and NASA conduct testing both on Earth and in Space in an attempt to understand a myriad of ongoing thruster problems.

Starliner flew NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the International Space Station ISS) in early June. But the mission has been plagued with serious problems.

An unprecedented situation is unfolding as Boeing and NASA grapple with ongoing thruster issues. What was supposed to be a routine crewed test flight has turned into a complex engineering challenge.

 The situation raises questions about Boeing's continued role in NASA's Commercial Crew Program and the future of private space travel.

Biden Plea Deals with 9/11 Terrorists Cause Outrage in DC - USA Herald

Trans Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Wins Women’s Boxing Match at the 2024 Paris Olympics - USA Herald

It’s Complicated: Male Testosterone Levels in Boxing - USA Herald

Tropical Storm Debby: Florida Braces for Impact - USA Herald

Starliner capsule “Calypso” Mission 

Starliner carried NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the International Space Station (ISS) in early June. However, the mission has been beset by significant technical problems that have forced multiple extensions.

In recent testing, NASA reported that 27 of Starliner’s 28 thrusters, also known as the Reaction Control System (RCS) engines, are functioning properly. 

These engines are essential for maneuvering the spacecraft in orbit. However, the ongoing thruster issues have left NASA management facing a difficult decision: whether to bring the astronauts back on the misfiring Starliner capsule or to use SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for their return.

Thruster Troubles

The thruster problems began before the mission even launched, causing several delays. These issues resurfaced during docking at the ISS, further complicating the mission. NASA has yet to identify a definitive root cause for the thruster malfunctions, which poses a significant risk for the return flight.

"We remain confident in the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to return safely with crew," a Boeing spokesperson stated to CNBC on Friday. "We are supporting NASA’s requests for additional data, analysis, and data reviews to affirm the spacecraft’s safe undocking and landing capabilities."

Alternate Plan for Returning Home

NASA has emphasized that “astronaut safety remains the top priority” in its decision-making process, acknowledging the inherent risks of human spaceflight. One of the primary alternatives being considered is returning the astronauts using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.