Produced by: Tarun Mishra
NASA has announced progress on the Boeing Starliner mission return plan. The Starliner spacecraft, docked to the ISS since June, is undergoing extensive data analysis before final decisions are made.
Ken Bowersox, NASA’s Associate Administrator for Space Operations, stated that decisional meetings are planned for the following week to ensure the safest possible return plan for the crew aboard Starliner.
The Boeing Starliner, launched in June with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, encountered technical problems, including thruster issues and helium leaks, causing delays in the mission's timeline.
NASA emphasized that astronaut safety is the primary concern. Various options, including returning the crew via SpaceX Crew Dragon, are under evaluation to ensure a safe return.
NASA will provide further details on the status of the return plan and the Starliner spacecraft during a media update on August 14, keeping the public informed on the mission’s progress.
NASA continues to work closely with Boeing and SpaceX to assess the situation and develop a safe return strategy for Wilmore and Williams.
Wilmore and Williams are reported to be in good health as they continue their scientific work and station maintenance aboard the ISS, while awaiting a finalized return plan.
The successful completion of the Boeing Starliner CFT mission is critical for advancing commercial crew transportation systems and ensuring the continued human presence in space.