What To Know
- The stressful saga of the Starliner continues, with the capsule developing new leaks and NASA currently assessing its ability to return the duo to Earth.
- This is obviously a relief for Boeing, which demonstrates that despite initial problems, the Starliner is capable of accomplishing the essential tasks of its mission.
- It reaffirms the robustness of the spacecraft’s design and the competence of the technical teams who worked on the ground to solve challenges along the way.
After an uncertain docking process, Boeing still managed to transport its two astronauts to the International Space Station last week. However, the stressful saga of the Starliner continues, with the capsule developing new leaks and NASA currently assessing its ability to return the duo to Earth.
A mixed success
Last week, Boeing encountered difficulties during the initial docking of the Starliner spacecraft with the ISS. Technical problems delayed the process, requiring rescheduling for another window of opportunity. The spacecraft then experienced failures of five of its thrusters during its initial approach, four of which were successfully recovered. Despite these obstacles, the Starliner eventually successfully docked with the ISS. This is obviously a relief for Boeing, which demonstrates that despite initial problems, the Starliner is capable of accomplishing the essential tasks of its mission. It reaffirms the robustness of the spacecraft’s design and the competence of the technical teams who worked on the ground to solve challenges along the way. For NASA, this success is also crucial, because it shows that its commercial partners can overcome technical difficulties while maintaining high standards of safety and performance. The American space agency relies on missions like this one to develop the capacity to transport astronauts and cargo to and from the ISS reliably and regularly. However, all is not settled yet.
The Starliner spacecraft approaches the International Space Station. Credits: NASA
Multiple Starliner Leaks
NASA recently reported that Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has encountered a serious technical problem. Five helium leaks were indeed detected in its service module. Helium is essential in the spacecraft’s propulsion system. It is used to propel the thrusters without the risk of combustion or toxicity. These leaks are therefore considered critical, because they could potentially affect the performance and safety of the Starliner during the remainder of its mission. Currently, the helium collectors onboard Starliner are closed as per normal procedures to prevent further loss of gas. However, the presence of leaks poses a serious risk, even if they are currently contained. Note that helium is used not only in the thrusters, but also in other critical systems onboard, which underscores the critical importance of maintaining its integrity. Boeing and NASA engineers are actively assessing the potential impact of these leaks on the rest of the mission. They must not only closely monitor current leak rates, but also anticipate any increases that may occur during the remaining duration of the mission. This assessment is critical to determining whether Starliner can safely complete remaining tasks, including returning astronauts to Earth. Despite the technical challenges Starliner faces, NASA remains confident in Boeing’s ability to resolve ongoing issues. Mission management teams are working closely together to assess risks and determine adjustments needed to ensure mission success. The next goal is to secure the Starliner’s safe return to Earth no earlier than June 18, marking a critical milestone in NASA’s commercial crew program.
