NASA and Boeing recently announced that the first Starliner crewed flight, known as “Calypso”, will be staying longer at the International Space Station for further testing on the ground. This decision comes as the team conducts a test campaign of the spacecraft’s thruster technology at White Sands, New Mexico.
Initially planned for a nine-day mission in space, the Starliner flight has exceeded expectations, tallying 24 days and counting. While the extended stay may raise concerns, officials assure that the capsule is safe to return to Earth in case of an emergency. The delay in returning the Starliner is solely to gather more data about the spacecraft’s performance, with a focus on its thruster system. NASA’s Commercial Crew manager, Steve Stich, mentioned that the testing process could take a couple of weeks as they aim to replicate in-flight conditions on the ground.
Despite being a significant step towards certifying Boeing for operational crewed missions, the Starliner crew flight test has encountered challenges similar to its uncrewed predecessors. Once considered a competitor to SpaceX’s Dragon, Starliner has faced setbacks and delays that have caused it to fall behind in NASA’s plans. The agency intends to have SpaceX and Boeing alternate astronaut flights to the ISS.
The ground testing at White Sands is crucial to examining the thruster’s performance and identifying any unusual issues. Once the testing is completed, the team will decide on a plan for the capsule’s return to Earth. Keeping Starliner at the ISS during the testing allows for frequent thruster tests and physical inspections after test firings. Despite the prolonged stay in orbit, the spacecraft is designed for missions lasting up to 210 days, demonstrating confidence in its safety.
Both NASA and Boeing representatives have reiterated that the crewed flight test is part of an experimental mission to study Starliner further and not a response to a critical problem. Mark Nappi, Boeing’s Starliner program Vice President, emphasized that the crew is not in danger and that there is no increased risk when deciding to bring the astronauts back to Earth.
The decision to extend the Starliner’s stay at the ISS for additional testing reflects a commitment to ensuring the spacecraft’s safety and performance. While challenges have arisen during the mission, the thorough testing and ground inspections aim to address any issues before the capsule’s return to Earth. The collaborative efforts between NASA and Boeing demonstrate a dedication to conducting rigorous evaluations to enhance the reliability of crewed space missions.