NASA and Boeing Extend Starliner Capsule's ISS Stay for Analysis and Testing

After the authorities announced the decision to prolong the stay of the Starliner crew capsule at the International Space Station, it became clear that the re-entry originally scheduled for June 26 would be delayed. The purpose of the extension is to ensure a comprehensive analysis and testing regarding helium leaks and thruster failures. NASA is planning a formal re-entry readiness review and is expected to set a new landing target date, given the ongoing analysis.

Due to the extended duration of the Starliner mission, its undocking and return to Earth are anticipated to shift past the already scheduled space station spacewalks on June 28th and July 2nd. Nevertheless, the Starliner commander and co-pilot maintain clearance to undock and fly back to Earth, should an exigency arise that necessitates a swift departure.

Thorough Approach to Decision-Making

Steve Stich, the manager of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, emphasized the importance of adhering to a meticulous mission management team process and allowing the data to steer the decision-making process concerning the observed helium system leaks and thruster performance during the docking phase. He also highlighted the necessity for an agency-level review to ensure formal acceptance and smooth progression of the mission, similar to the procedure carried out prior to the return of NASA's SpaceX Demo-2 in 2020.

The core issue revolves around the detection of helium leaks and malfunctioning thrusters situated in the Starliner's service module. This module, attached to the crew capsule's base, is jettisoned before re-entry and disintegrates upon entering the atmosphere. In light of the inability to physically examine the hardware post-re-entry, NASA and Boeing managers seek to allot ample time for reviewing telemetry, conducting ongoing testing, and formulating contingency plans, should additional issues surface after undocking. Furthermore, they aspire to acquire insights into preemptive measures to avert similar setbacks in future flights.

Future Certification and Operational Crew Rotation Flights

While NASA originally intended to certify the Starliner for operational crew rotation flights to the space station commencing early next year, this goal currently remains uncertain. Despite the prevailing challenges, the Starliner continues to function effectively during its docked tenure at the space station.

The extended timeframe is being strategically utilized to facilitate critical station activities while preparing for the return of the Starliner crew and to gain valuable insights into the system upgrades essential for post-certification missions.

Challenges Faced by the Starliner

The Starliner faced a one-month delay in its launch on June 5 due to minor issues with its Atlas 5 rocket, problems with a countdown computer, and an initial helium leak in the thruster pressurization system. While the ship was deemed fit for launch despite the minor helium leak, additional helium leaks surfaced during its journey to the space station. Moreover, the flight computer disabled seven maneuvering jets, and one thruster was rendered unusable. However, after successful test firing of the remaining jets, engineers expressed confidence in their performance for post-undocking maneuvers and the critical de-orbit "burn."

The officials are confident in managing the helium leaks, even if they worsen post-undocking, considering that the ship has over ten times the required amount of helium for the return to Earth. This assurance extends to the effectiveness of the jets required for the return and the critical de-orbit "burn."