Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which finally reached the International Space Station (ISS) after years of delays and technical difficulties, is now facing new challenges. The spacecraft's return to Earth is now uncertain. Multiple helium leaks and thrust issues are continuing, leaving the Starliner stranded.

 The United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V with astronauts aboard Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner lifted off on June 5, 2024, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. 

The launch of NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, was celebrated as a significant milestone. But problems continue to plague the mission.

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Starliner Stranded

The journey to the ISS was not without its issues. Shortly after what appeared to be a successful launch, Starliner experienced a temporary loss of thrusters and helium leaks. 

Despite these setbacks, the astronauts successfully piloted the spacecraft manually in a planned test, restoring function to four out of five malfunctioning reaction control system thrusters.

After docking with the ISS, further inspections revealed five additional helium leaks. These leaks are particularly problematic as helium is crucial for the spacecraft's thruster systems, essential for navigation in space. According to Boeing, these leaks need thorough assessment to understand their impact on the mission’s duration and the safe return of the crew.

In response to these findings, NASA has extended Wilmore and Williams' stay on the ISS from June 14 to no earlier than June 18. This extension will allow NASA and Boeing to determine the extent of the helium leak issues and decide on the best course of action.

Starliner Program Technical Issues

The road to this mission has been fraught with difficulties for Boeing. The Starliner program has faced numerous delays, technical issues, and an unsuccessful uncrewed test flight in 2019. The recent discovery of helium leaks adds another layer of complexity and uncertainty to the spacecraft’s future as a reliable option for NASA’s astronaut transportation needs.

Despite these challenges, engineers remain optimistic. They have confirmed that the capsule contains sufficient helium, approximately ten times the required amount, for its return trip. Boeing assures that the closed manifolds will prevent further helium loss while Starliner is docked.

NASA is also making the best of the situation. With the extended stay, the crew will conduct additional activities, including a scheduled spacewalk on June 13. This extra time in orbit allows engineers to perform comprehensive system checkouts on Starliner.

The first helium leak was discovered last month but was not deemed severe enough to delay the mission to the ISS. However, additional leaks occurred during the ascent, and initial docking attempts were hampered by malfunctioning thrusters. These compounding issues have left many questioning the future viability of the Starliner program.

The mission's success now hinges on safely returning Wilmore and Williams to Earth on the Starliner. In the meantime, they remain at the ISS.