NASA has announced a new target date of no earlier than May 21 for the inaugural crewed mission of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS), following a delay caused by technical issues.
Initially scheduled for launch on May 6 aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, the mission was postponed after teams identified technical problems requiring additional attention.
On May 11, engineers from ULA successfully replaced a pressure regulation valve on the liquid oxygen tank of the Atlas V rocket’s Centaur upper stage. Subsequent re-pressurization, system purges, and testing confirmed the new valve was functioning normally, according to NASA.
Meanwhile, Boeing’s Starliner teams are addressing a minor helium leak detected in the spacecraft’s service module, traced to a flange on a single reaction control system thruster. Helium, which is non-combustible and non-toxic, is essential for enabling the spacecraft’s thrusters to fire.
NASA and Boeing are collaborating to develop testing and operational solutions to resolve the issue, ensuring the spacecraft’s readiness for the forthcoming mission.
The flight test, known as the Crew Flight Test (CFT), will carry NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the ISS. This mission marks the first time astronauts will travel aboard Boeing’s Starliner as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which aims to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the ISS.
Wilmore and Williams are expected to spend approximately one week aboard the orbiting laboratory, engaging with the ISS crew and conducting tests before returning to Earth. Their re-entry will feature a parachute and airbag-assisted landing in the southwestern United States.
Upon successful completion of the mission, NASA plans to begin the final certification process for the Starliner spacecraft and its systems. This certification will pave the way for future crewed rotation missions to the ISS, expanding capabilities within human space exploration.
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NASA delays Boeing Starliner launch to no earlier than May 21
cgtn.com
