The Woes of NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test

NASA’s Boeing Crew Flight Test status as of August 20, 2024

Mission Overview:

• Launch Date: June 5, 2024

  
  

• Spacecraft: Boeing Starliner

  
  

• Astronauts: Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams

  
  

• Objective: Validate Starliner’s capability for long-duration missions to the ISS and ensure readiness for future crewed flights.

  
  

Current Situation (August 20, 2024):

• Issues Encountered: Thruster malfunctions and helium system leaks during flight to the ISS.

• Duration of Stay: Initially planned for about a week, extended due to technical issues.

• Review Process: NASA plans two reviews – Program Control Board and Agency Flight Readiness Review – to decide on the safe return of the astronauts.

• Decision Timeline: Expected by the end of August 2024.

  
  

Return Options:

1. Starliner: If issues are resolved, Butch and Suni could return aboard Starliner.

   
   

2. SpaceX Crew-9: If Starliner remains uncrewed, Butch and Suni would stay until early 2025 and return with SpaceX Crew-9.

   
   

Crew Status:

• Activities: Performing research, maintenance, and assisting with Starliner testing.

  
  

• Safety: Crew is safe and has the necessary supplies and communication means.

  
  

Contingency Plans:

• SpaceX Dragon: NASA could adjust SpaceX Crew-9 to accommodate Butch and Suni if needed.

  
  

• Extended Stay: Possible until late February 2025 if Starliner issues are unresolved

  
  

Most Asked Questions:

1. Why is the Crew Flight Test staying longer than planned?

• The extension is due to unexpected technical issues with Starliner’s thrusters and helium system. NASA and Boeing are thoroughly analyzing these issues to ensure the spacecraft's safety for future missions. The extended stay allows for comprehensive testing and data collection.

  
  

2. What if there’s an emergency?

• Starliner is still the primary option for an emergency return. However, if needed, there are contingency plans involving SpaceX Dragon or extending the mission until a safe return option is available.

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3. How long could Butch and Suni stay if Starliner isn’t used?

• If Starliner is not used, they could remain on the ISS until late February 2025 and return with SpaceX Crew-9, which would carry fewer astronauts in late September.

  
  

4. Are they prepared for a longer stay?

• Yes, both astronauts are experienced with long-duration missions and are fully prepared for the potential extension of their stay.

  
  

5. Do they have everything they need?

• The ISS is well-stocked with essential supplies, and additional cargo is regularly sent by resupply missions, ensuring the crew has everything necessary for their extended stay.

  
  

6. What are their current tasks?

• Besides monitoring Starliner and conducting research, they are involved in various scientific experiments and maintenance tasks aboard the ISS.

  
  

7. Can they communicate with family?

• Yes, Butch and Suni have access to email, calls, and video conferences with family and friends.

  
  

8. What other steps is NASA taking for their return?

• NASA is adjusting the schedules and crew assignments of SpaceX missions to accommodate the potential return of Butch and Suni, ensuring all safety and operational considerations are addressed.

  
  

Overall, NASA is taking a cautious and thorough approach to address the technical issues with Starliner while ensuring the astronauts' safety and mission objectives are met.

Image: Starliner docked at the International Space Station. NASA / Boeing