Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft successfully returned to Earth, though without the astronauts it was meant to carry back.
The spacecraft, which faced technical problems after launching in June with NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams on board, completed its journey autonomously.
The astronauts, originally scheduled to return on Starliner, will instead remain on the International Space Station (ISS) until February, returning via SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.
After Starliner’s undocking from the ISS, it re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and landed safely at White Sands Space Harbor, New Mexico, on Saturday at 23:01 local time (05:01 GMT).
NASA officials expressed relief over the successful landing, but the mission’s complications cast a shadow. Steve Stich, NASA’s Commercial Crew Program Manager, said the team was pleased with the landing, though disappointed that the mission didn’t go as planned.
The initial flight faced issues shortly after its June 5 launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The spacecraft experienced helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, prompting NASA to deem it too risky for the astronauts’ return trip. Boeing and NASA engineers spent months analyzing the problems, but NASA ultimately decided in late August that Starliner was not safe enough.
NASA’s decision caused a significant delay in the astronauts’ return, originally an eight-day mission now extended to eight months. SpaceX is set to launch its next vehicle by the end of September, which will now accommodate Wilmore and Williams, delaying their return until February.
Despite the challenges, both astronauts remain in good spirits, continuing their mission on the ISS. Dana Weigel, ISS Program Manager, said they are adapting well to their extended stay and are equipped with necessary gear for the months ahead.
Boeing, dealing with significant reputational and financial setbacks following recent technical issues and fatal accidents, faces another blow with Starliner’s struggles.
However, NASA remains committed to the spacecraft, emphasizing its importance in ensuring the U.S. has multiple options for space travel.
This was Boeing’s first crewed flight attempt with Starliner, which has been plagued by delays since its development. Despite SpaceX successfully launching nine crewed flights for NASA, Boeing’s path to certification has been fraught with difficulties.
However, NASA administrator Bill Nelson expressed confidence that Starliner would eventually fly with a crew on board again.
Chioma Kalu
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