Due to technical glitches, the work has been repeatedly extended, with no firm return date known.
At this time, the The International Space Station (ISS) has eight astronauts. Residents of this orbiting laboratory 400 kilometers from the Earth's surface. However, the number was initially planned to be only six.
Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore took off on the first crewed flight in Boeing's Starliner capsule on June 5. The spacecraft, a direct competitor to SpaceX for transporting astronauts to the orbital complex, was designed for one mission. Crude Flight Test (CFT), Initially planned for some contractions 10 days. However, due to technical glitches, the work was repeatedly extended, No firm return date is known. Starliner suffered problems such as helium leaks and propulsion failures, keeping Williams and Wilmore in space. SpaceX is awaiting a possible rescue mission with its Crew Dragon capsule.
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Starliner has significant drawbacks
While docking with the ISS on June 6, the Starliner encountered unexpected problems. Helium leaks and problems with many of its propellants. Although Boeing assures that the ship is stable and a ready Emergency evacuation If necessary, both NASA and Boeing have decided Take more time to investigate thoroughly Before setting a new return date, the underlying causes of these problems.
“We will complete our tests, analyze the damaged tree, and decide on the next step.” Steve Stich, NASA's Commercial Group Program Director, commented. Emphasizes the need for careful evaluation before any decision is made.
The comparison to the early days of the space shuttle was not lost in the discussions. Stich echoed this when contacted Current challenges faced during NASA's first space shuttle mission in 1981, Pointing out significant similarities in the technical issues that have arisen.
Boeing's Starliner spacecraft docks with the International Space Station for the first time. NASA/AP
Mark Nappi, Boeing's vice president and director of commercial group programs, expressed confidence in the continuous learning process during this test mission. “It's part of the process. It's not surprising,” Nappi noted, referring to recent communications with the crew from orbit.
Meanwhile, the ISS Willmore and Williams continue their daily duties, including maintenance work, while they wait for news of their return home.
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