With NASA astronauts docked at the International Space Station for far longer than planned, there is an acknowledgment from the agency’s leadership about potential alternatives to Boeing’s Starliner for returning the crew to Earth. Despite this, officials still consider Boeing’s spacecraft as the primary option for the return. Starliner capsule “Calypso” is expected to return as early as the end of this month from its extended stay at the ISS, pending the results of testing on a faulty propulsion system. The spacecraft has been in space for 36 days and counting as additional testing is being performed in New Mexico before clearing it for the return.
NASA’s Commercial Crew manager Steve Stich emphasized during a press conference that the first option for returning the astronauts is to do so on Starliner itself. At the moment, there doesn’t seem to be a pressing need to turn to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon as an alternative. However, contingency plans include the possibility of involving a SpaceX capsule in case Starliner returns from the ISS empty. Nevertheless, as of now, NASA has not made a decision regarding the need for an alternative spacecraft.
Boeing and NASA initiated testing of the spacecraft’s thruster technology back on the ground in White Sands, New Mexico on July 3. The objective of the testing is to replicate an issue that led to as many as five of Calypso’s thrusters shutting down during the maneuver to dock with the ISS. The ground testing is crucial to ensure that the thrusters can withstand the required conditions without any damage. Boeing and NASA teams are currently conducting inspections of the test thruster, aiming to complete testing by the end of July for an optimistic return of Starliner.
There have been discussions regarding preparations in case additional measures are needed for the return of Starliner’s crew. While there hasn’t been any need to send another Dragon to rescue the crew, contingency plans have been reviewed to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. The focus remains on addressing the thruster issues and ensuring that the spacecraft is safe for the return journey.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, both the astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, have expressed confidence in returning on Starliner. They trust that the tests being conducted will provide the necessary data and answers required to ensure a safe return journey. The testing and preparations are seen as crucial steps in preparing for the return of the crew.
Starliner was once considered a competitor to SpaceX’s Dragon, which has successfully completed 12 crewed trips to the ISS over the past four years. However, due to setbacks and delays, Starliner has gradually moved into a secondary position for NASA. The agency now plans to have both SpaceX and Boeing fly astronauts on alternate flights, with the Starliner crew flight test being a significant milestone before Boeing is certified to fly crew on operational missions starting as early as February.
NASA’s return from the ISS with Boeing’s Starliner remains uncertain, with ongoing testing and preparations aiming to address the challenges faced by the spacecraft. The decision-making process regarding the return options for the crew highlights the complexities involved in human spaceflight missions and the importance of thorough testing and preparation for ensuring a safe return.
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