No1 Best Boeing and NASA Bring Starliner
Introduction Of NASA
After 93 days in orbit, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is scheduled to return to Earth. The mission marks a significant moment for Boeing and NASA as they work to bring the uncrewed spacecraft back home safely. The spacecraft is “go” for undocking from the International Space Station (ISS) at 6:04 p.m. EST, although it will leave behind NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. The drama of this return can be watched live as events unfold.
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Final Preparations for Starliner’s Return
Earlier today, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams closed the hatch on Starliner for the last time. They will monitor the spacecraft’s journey as it reenters Earth’s atmosphere and makes its way to the landing site in New Mexico. Wilmore and Williams, originally intended to return on the Starliner, will instead remain on the ISS until February 2025 and return on a SpaceX Dragon capsule.
This mission, which launched on June 5, was a critical final step for Boeing as part of a $4.2 billion contract won in 2014. The mission was designed to certify Starliner as a safe and reliable vehicle for regular crew transportation services to the ISS. However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges.
Technical Issues Extend the Mission
Shortly before docking with the ISS, Starliner experienced several technical issues, including malfunctioning thrusters and helium leaks in the propellant system. These problems prompted NASA and Boeing engineers to investigate the root cause, leading to a mission extension from its initial seven days to over 90 days. Despite their efforts, NASA ultimately decided that Starliner should return to Earth empty, postponing its crewed missions.
Commitment to the Starliner Program
Although SpaceX remains the only American provider of astronaut transportation services, Boeing is committed to continuing with the Starliner program. The company is working to resolve the anomalies and is determined to have the next spacecraft ready for a test mission. However, the timeline for this remains uncertain.
Watch Live Coverage of Starliner’s Return
NASA will begin streaming coverage of Starliner’s undocking at 5:45 p.m. EST. The spacecraft is expected to make a soft landing using parachutes and airbags at New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range shortly after midnight EST. Alternative landing sites include Willcox, Arizona, Dugway Proving Ground in Utah, and Edwards Air Force Base in California.
NASA will also provide separate coverage of Starliner’s reentry and landing starting at 10:50 p.m. EST. Assuming all goes as planned, viewers can watch the spacecraft’s safe return below.
This mission is a critical test for Boeing and NASA, and its success will determine the next steps for the Starliner program. Stay tuned to witness this important milestone in space exploration.