In the far reaches of space, Boeing’s Starliner has many surprises and unexpected extensions in store.
The suspense intensifies in space as the Nasa announces an unexpected postponement for the return of Starliner of Boeing on earth. Initially planned for a lightning mission to the Station Spatial Internationale (ISS), the ship extends its stay for technical reasons. The stakes are high, astronauts on standby and experts on alert. A new stage is emerging, between control and uncertainty, in the evolution of this space project with multiple challenges.
The Starliner in extended orbit, but why?
NASA recently announced that the Boeing Starliner, docked at the International Space Station (ISS) since June 6, will return to Earth postponed to July. Initially planned for 1 week of parking, the Starliner’s mission was extended several times, ending up keeping it docked with the ISS for almost 1 month.
This delay is intended to avoid any conflict with 2 spacewalks planned for 1er et July 2nd, which could disrupt the undocking process. In addition, it offers astronauts Starliner, Barry “Butch” Wilmore et Sunita “Suni” Williamsthe opportunity to review the ship’s propulsion systems.
Although the Starliner’s exact departure date has not yet been set and no resupply or crew rotation missions are planned before mid-August, NASA says there is no emergency thanks to sufficient reserves. aboard the ISS. Steve Stich, program manager NASA Commercial Crewspecified that the Starliner can remain docked for up to 45 days, thus ensuring comfortable room for maneuver.
Starliner’s technical challenges pile up in space
The Starliner is accumulating technical problems, once again delaying its departure scheduled for June 25. With successive postponements since June 13, the problems encountered during the outbound flight and the helium leaks persist. The reliability of the vehicle is in question, despite efforts by NASA and Boeing to resolve the problems.
A thorough evaluation of the Starliner was initially planned during its docking with the ISS, but time proved insufficient to address all mechanical issues. There prolongation of the stay of Starliner is therefore necessary to collect more data and make informed decisions. According to Steve Stich“it is essential to rely on data to manage the problems encountered”.
Recommendations will be made at an upcoming NASA press conference, where the results of the review will be communicated to Boeing. The Starliner remains under surveillance, awaiting solutions to ensure its proper functioning before a new departure.
