Detect helium leaks and impeller problems

The Boeing Starliner spacecraft is stuck at the space station at the moment NASA Boeing and Boeing have adjusted the return schedule to address issues within the propulsion system while managing conflicts with planned spacewalks International Space Station.

This delay allows for comprehensive reviews and checks of the system to be conducted in parallel with previous mission procedures. While these assessments are being made, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sonny Williams remain active aboard the ISS, equipped with ample supplies and no urgent need to return to Earth soon.

NASA and Boeing postpone the return of the Starliner

Leadership at NASA and Boeing adjusted the Starliner Crew Flight Test spacecraft’s return to Earth with the agency’s astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sonny Williams from the International Space Station (ISS). The move on Wednesday, June 26, deconflicts the Starliner’s docking and landing process from a series of planned spacewalks on the International Space Station while allowing mission teams time to review propulsion system data. Listen to a full replay (embedded below) of the June 18 briefing where NASA and Boeing leadership discussed ongoing efforts.

Mission management and safety reviews

“We take our time and follow our standard mission management team process,” said Steve Stich, NASA’s Commercial Crew Program manager. “We are allowing data to drive our decision-making regarding management of small leaks in the helium system and propulsion performance that we observed during rendezvous and docking. Additionally, given the duration of the mission, it is appropriate for us to complete an agency-wide review, similar to what was conducted prior to an agency mission.” NASA. SpaceX Demo-2 returns after two months in orbit, documenting the agency’s formal acceptance of moving forward as planned.

Opportunities for future return and readiness

A media communications company with mission command will follow the outcome of the readiness review, and the agency will share those details as they are solidified. Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is still ready to return in the event that an emergency occurs at the space station that requires the crew to leave orbit and return to Earth.

Mission managers are evaluating future return opportunities following two spacewalks planned at the station on Monday, June 24, and Tuesday, July 2.

The aurora borealis streamed beneath Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft docked in the foreport on the Harmony module as the International Space Station rose 266 miles above the Indian Ocean southwest of Australia. Credit: NASA

On-orbit performance and crew integration

“The Starliner vehicle performs well in orbit while docking with the space station,” Stitch said. “We are using the additional time strategically to set the stage for some important station activities while also completing preparation for Butch and Sonny’s return aboard the Starliner and gaining valuable insight into the system upgrades we will want to make for post-certification missions.”

NASA’s Boeing Flight Test astronauts (from top) Butch Wilmore and Sonny Williams pose for a photo inside the vestibule between the forward port of the International Space Station’s Harmony module and the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Credit: NASA

Positive feedback for the crew and supply status

Wilmore and Williams remain integral to the Expedition 71 crew, assisting with station operations as needed and completing additional objectives during the flight to obtain NASA certification for the Starliner vehicle.

“Crew feedback has been very positive, and they know that every bit of learning we do in crew flight testing will improve and refine our experience for future crews,” said Mark Nappi, vice president and director of the Boeing Starliner Program.

The crew does not need time to leave the station because there are plenty of supplies in orbit, and the station’s schedule is relatively open until mid-August.