NASA is currently facing a decision regarding the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams from the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. The astronauts have been in space for 51 days, six weeks longer than planned, due to issues with Starliner’s propulsion system.
The spacecraft encountered problems with its reaction control thrusters overheating and shutting off as it approached the space station on June 6. Additionally, there were helium leaks in the propulsion system. NASA and Boeing managers are working to bring the astronauts home on the Starliner spacecraft, even though there has been speculation about using a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule as a backup plan.
To ensure the safe return of the astronauts, NASA has extended the duration of the Starliner test flight to conduct more tests and analyze data. Ground teams have completed testing of a thruster at White Sands, New Mexico, and plan to fire the spacecraft’s thrusters in orbit while docked at the space station. The tests are aimed at gaining confidence in the spacecraft’s ability to safely bring the crew home and to understand the root causes of the technical issues.
One of the crucial tests involved a series of test-firings of a Starliner thruster on the ground. Engineers tested a thruster that had experienced thrust degradation similar to what was observed in orbit. The tests revealed a bulging Teflon seal in an oxidizer valve, which could restrict the flow of propellant to the thruster. Engineers are evaluating the integrity of the seal to ensure it can withstand the undocking and deorbit burn of the spacecraft.
While the primary focus remains on bringing Wilmore and Williams home on the Starliner spacecraft, NASA is considering all options to ensure the astronauts’ safe return. The decision to return the astronauts in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule is still on the table, but NASA’s goal is to complete the mission using the Starliner spacecraft as intended.
In conclusion, the ongoing tests and evaluations are crucial for NASA to certify Starliner for future operational missions. By conducting thorough tests and addressing technical issues, NASA aims to have two human-rated spaceships available for flights to the ISS. The agency’s commitment to the safety of astronauts and the success of the mission is evident in the meticulous testing and analysis being conducted to ensure a successful return for the crew aboard the Starliner spacecraft.
