NASA to Return Boeing’s Starliner Uncrewed After Technical Issues, Astronauts Remain on ISS.
US:
NASA has announced that Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft will return to Earth without astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, a decision made to prioritize safety and gather additional data. This announcement, made on Saturday, reflects the agency’s commitment to rigorous testing and risk management. Wilmore and Williams, who arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) in June aboard Starliner, will remain on the station to continue their research and support duties until their scheduled return.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson underscored the importance of safety in spaceflight, stating, “The decision to keep Butch and Suni aboard and return Starliner uncrewed underscores our commitment to safety.” Wilmore and Williams will stay as part of Expedition 71/72 and are expected to return to Earth aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft during the Crew-9 mission, which is set to launch no earlier than September 24.
Starliner encountered technical difficulties, including helium leaks and issues with its reaction control thrusters, which were first detected on June 6. Despite extensive troubleshooting and testing, NASA has concluded that the spacecraft does not currently meet the safety standards required for a crewed return. Therefore, Starliner will conduct an autonomous return flight to gather further performance data.
Ken Bowersox, NASA’s associate administrator for Space Operations, commended the teams for their thorough work and dedication to safety. “We’ve gained valuable insights from Starliner’s operations and will continue to refine the spacecraft’s systems based on these findings,” Bowersox said.
Following Starliner’s return, NASA will review all mission data to determine the necessary steps for certifying the spacecraft for future crewed flights. Meanwhile, the Crew-9 mission will now include four astronauts, with adjustments being made to accommodate additional cargo and personal effects. The mission will launch from Space Launch Complex-40 at Cape Canaveral.
The Crew-9 flight will be the ninth rotational mission under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which collaborates with U.S. aerospace companies to ensure safe and reliable transportation to and from the ISS. This program supports the station’s role as a key platform for scientific research and technology development, while NASA’s Artemis program continues to prepare for future exploration missions to the Moon and Mars.
