NASA Admits Serious Starliner Issues, Astronauts May Rely on SpaceX for Return Trips

NASA has acknowledged that significant issues have arisen with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which transported two astronauts to the ISS in June. These problems could prevent the astronauts from returning to Earth on the Boeing vehicle, leading NASA to consider an alternative option for their safe return.

Exploring Alternatives for Astronaut Rescue

NASA is now evaluating a backup plan that would involve the astronauts, Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore, returning to Earth on a vehicle developed by SpaceX, a direct competitor of Boeing. This unexpected turn of events could extend the astronauts' stay in orbit, which was originally intended to be as short as eight days, into the following year.

During a recent news conference, Ken Bowersox, NASA's associate administrator for the space operations mission directorate, stated, "We could take either path. And reasonable people could pick either path." This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the uncertainty surrounding the astronauts' return to Earth.

Boeing's Troubles and Financial Impact

The news of the Starliner spacecraft's issues adds to the challenges and setbacks faced by Boeing, a major player in the aerospace industry with substantial federal contracts in both defense and space. In addition to the difficulties faced by Boeing's civil aviation division, the company recently announced a $125 million write-off related to the Starliner program, compounding earlier unexpected costs totaling $1.5 billion.

The developments with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft not only pose a significant challenge for NASA and the astronauts involved but also reflect the ongoing struggles faced by Boeing as a company with extensive contracts and investments in the aerospace sector.