Particle.news
Download on the App Store
56 ARTICLES
·
10mo ago

Boeing's Starliner Faces Extended Stay at ISS Amid Safety Checks

NASA and Boeing engineers are investigating thruster and helium leak issues, delaying the spacecraft's return.

Image
Image
iss071e183650 (June 13, 2024) --- NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts (from top) Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams pose for a portrait inside the vestibule between the forward port on the International Space Station's Harmony module and Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.
A satellite image shows the International Space Station with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Photo: Maxar Technologies

Overview

  • Starliner, on its first crewed mission, has been at the ISS since June 6, far beyond its planned nine-day stay.
  • Engineers are conducting extensive tests to understand and resolve thruster and helium leak problems.
  • The spacecraft can return in an emergency, but NASA aims to ensure all issues are addressed before undocking.
  • Astronauts Wilmore and Williams are assisting with ISS maintenance and science experiments during the delay.
  • The latest possible return date is mid-August, contingent on resolving technical issues and upcoming crew rotations.