Boeing's Starliner Stays Docked at ISS while Engineers Probe Propulsion Issues

Starliner Programme Faces Another Delay

Boeing's Starliner, which was set to depart from the International Space Station (ISS) on June 25, will remain docked slightly longer. The decision to delay the departure follows the need to analyze data from the vehicle's propulsion system. The spacecraft's new departure date is yet undefined; upcoming spacewalks and other station activities could push it back as far as August.

Crew Safety Not an Issue

NASA's spokesperson commented that the crew is not in a hurry to leave the station since there are ample supplies in orbit and the ISS’s schedule is relatively open through mid-August. However, the Starliner will need to depart the ISS before August without additional engineering analysis.

Engineering Snags Slow Down Departure

The delay will give engineers more time to review data from the Starliner's propulsion system, where helium leaks and thruster problems have been persisting. The problematic hardware will be discarded once the vehicle begins its return journey to Earth. This means that the data collected before return becomes crucial in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

Cleared for Emergency Return

Despite the propulsion issues, the Starliner is cleared for use as a return vehicle in the case of an emergency. NASA has potential alternatives such as the Crew Dragon and an upcoming Soyuz, which could step in if required.

Propulsion System Review Ongoing

As part of the procedure, the mission management team will undertake a review of the propulsion system, similar to the one held ahead of SpaceX Demo-2's return after two months on orbit. Eventually, the team intends to resolve each issue in order to ensure the safe return of astronauts Butch and Suni aboard the Starliner.

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