Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft undocked from the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday, concluding a delayed test mission. The spacecraft, which was originally set to return with NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Indian-American Sunita Williams, instead made its journey back to Earth uncrewed due to ongoing technical issues.
Prolonged Mission Ends Without Crew Return
Wilmore and Williams, who became the first astronauts to pilot Starliner in June, were scheduled to return after an eight-day test mission. However, propulsion system malfunctions extended their stay aboard the ISS, turning the planned short mission into an eight-month ordeal. The two astronauts remained in orbit, 400 km above Earth, with seven other crew members aboard the ISS, as Starliner autonomously departed from the station at 6:04 p.m. ET for its six-hour trip back to Earth.
Technical Problems Persist
The decision to leave Starliner uncrewed for its return followed propulsion system problems during the spacecraft’s June approach to the ISS. Five of Starliner’s 28 maneuvering thrusters failed during docking, and the propulsion system also experienced several helium leaks. This sparked an extended investigation by Boeing, costing the company $125 million in repairs and leading to significant delays.
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Despite these setbacks, Boeing engineers successfully uploaded new software that allowed the spacecraft to return autonomously. Starliner used its remaining maneuvering thrusters to adjust its orbit before reentering Earth’s atmosphere. The capsule safely landed at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico using parachutes to assist the touchdown.
Astronauts to Return in 2025 via SpaceX
Wilmore and Williams, along with the rest of the ISS crew, are expected to return to Earth in February 2025 via a SpaceX vehicle. NASA announced that Starliner had been stocked with extra food and supplies to ensure the astronauts’ extended stay onboard the ISS could continue smoothly.
Boeing’s Ongoing Struggles with Starliner
Starliner’s current mission is the latest in a series of challenges for Boeing’s spacecraft. Since its failed test flight in 2019, the program has been plagued by repeated technical issues. While a 2022 mission was largely successful, similar problems with the thrusters persisted. These issues highlight Boeing’s ongoing struggles in the space industry, where the company once dominated. However, the rise of competitors like SpaceX, which now offers more affordable satellite and astronaut launches, has altered NASA’s approach to partnerships with private companies.
Starliner’s performance in this mission will be closely monitored, especially as Boeing continues its efforts to overcome setbacks and complete its testing phase.