'Empty': Boeing Starliner set to return on Earth tonight without NASA's Sunita Williams as crew closes hatch for the final time
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Final Preparations for Starliner’s Return
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have completed the final steps to prepare the Boeing Starliner spacecraft for its uncrewed return to Earth. The hatch was closed late Thursday, and the spacecraft is set to depart from the International Space Station (ISS) on Friday.
Modification for Cargo Return
Williams and Wilmore removed the crew seats from the Starliner, making more space for cargo that will be sent back to Earth. This adjustment optimizes the spacecraft's storage for materials returning from the ISS.
Scheduled Departure
The Starliner is scheduled to undock from the ISS’s Harmony module at 3:34 a.m. IST on Saturday. After undocking, it will undertake a six-hour journey, with plans for a landing at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.
Part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program
This return flight is a key part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, aiming to gather critical data on the Starliner’s performance during reentry and landing. The spacecraft’s mission has faced technical challenges, such as helium leaks and thruster issues, leading to the decision to return the spacecraft without astronauts.
Extended Stay for Astronauts
Initially, Williams and Wilmore were expected to return to Earth aboard the Starliner. Due to the technical difficulties, they will now remain on the ISS until February 2025 and return to Earth on a SpaceX Crew Dragon.
First Capsule for Land-Based Landing
The Starliner’s return will be carefully monitored as it is the first U.S. capsule designed for a land-based touchdown. This feature allows for quicker recovery of cargo and facilitates refurbishment for future missions.
Impact on Commercial Spaceflight
Despite the setbacks, NASA and Boeing continue to support the Starliner program. The success of this return flight will allow for a full inspection and evaluation, with lessons learned influencing future crewed missions to the ISS and beyond.