Recently, a crew member aboard Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner reported hearing unusual sonar-like noises emanating from a speaker within the spacecraft. This peculiar sound was only audible through the spacecraft’s speaker system, and despite extensive investigations, its origin remains unclear.
Starliner crew reports hearing strange “sonar like noises” emanating from their craft. This is the real audio of it: pic.twitter.com/xzHTMvB7uq
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Public and Social Media Reaction
The bizarre noise quickly became a topic of discussion on social media. Reactions ranged from humorous to speculative. One user joked about supernatural forces powering the Starliner, while others referenced iconic science fiction films, likening the noise to the motion detectors in “Alien” or the famous line from “Star Trek.”
Technical Theories
Several theories have been proposed to explain the mysterious sounds:
1. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): It’s possible that electromagnetic or radiofrequency interference from the International Space Station (ISS) or the spacecraft itself caused the sounds.
2. Audio System Feedback Loop: Issues with the spacecraft’s speaker and microphone system might have created an audio feedback loop, leading to the strange noises.
3. Signal Translation: The speaker could have been translating signals from other sources, such as adjacent satellites, into audible sounds.
Impact on Boeing’s Mission
The Starliner has faced several challenges during its missions. The most recent trip to the ISS was marred by mechanical issues, including engine failures and helium leaks. These problems delayed the spacecraft’s expected return and required SpaceX’s assistance to transport stranded astronauts back to Earth.
The recent noise incident adds to Boeing’s difficulties in demonstrating the Starliner’s reliability. This event has further complicated Boeing’s efforts to establish the spacecraft as a dependable option for space travel.
