'Rs 16,000 crore loss': Boeing's Starliner contract at risk as spacecraft to leave behind NASA’s Sunita Williams stuck on ISS for return journey
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Mission Conclusion
The Starliner spacecraft, currently docked at the International Space Station (ISS) with astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, is scheduled to conclude its mission early tomorrow morning. The spacecraft will undock from the ISS and return to Earth with its cargo.
Expected Landing Time
The Starliner is expected to undock around 3:34 a.m. IST on September 6. It will activate its braking rockets at 8:47 a.m. for one minute before landing at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico, with a targeted touchdown time of around 10 a.m. IST.
Technical Issues Impact
Due to technical issues, Williams and Wilmore were unable to return on this Starliner mission. The spacecraft’s problems have led to significant criticism globally and could impact future contracts with NASA.
Potential Contract Cancellation
There is a strong possibility that NASA may cancel Boeing's remaining contract for the Starliner program. Such a move could result in a financial loss exceeding $2 billion (nearly Rs 16,000 crore) for Boeing.
Astronauts' Extended Stay
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who arrived at the ISS on June 5 via Starliner, were initially unaware they would be stranded for an extended period. They will remain on the ISS for an additional five months, returning in February 2025 on SpaceX's Crew-9 mission.
Undocking Plan
The undocking of Starliner is scheduled to occur at 3:34 a.m. IST. The spacecraft will perform a braking manoeuvre at 8:47 a.m. IST before landing in New Mexico, utilizing parachutes for a cushioned descent.
NASA's Collaborative Efforts
NASA has been working with Boeing and SpaceX for a decade to develop spacecraft. While SpaceX’s Dragon capsule has achieved regular success, Boeing’s Starliner has encountered delays and technical challenges.
Starliner's Development History
Developed by Boeing Defence, Space & Security under NASA's Commercial Crew Program, the Starliner spacecraft was introduced in 2010. Testing flights began in 2019, with the first uncrewed Orbital Flight Test failing to dock with the ISS due to software issues.
Future of Starliner Missions
Boeing’s first operational mission was initially planned for August 2025. However, NASA expedited the schedule, and despite known issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system and helium tank, Boeing agreed to an early launch. If the current mission faces further issues, future missions may be in jeopardy.