The Boeing CST-100 Starliner crew has received promising news regarding their return to Earth. Recent ground tests of the spacecraft’s thrusters, which have left it in orbit since early June, have been successfully completed. Boeing and NASA were awaiting the results of these tests to plan the Starliner’s journey back home.
According to an update from late last week, “Ground testing of a Starliner Reaction Control System (RCS) thruster at White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico is complete, and teams are now turning their attention to data reviews.” This testing aimed to understand the degradation of the thrusters, particularly why some had to be de-selected during flight and the potential impact of bringing them back into service.
The term “de-selected” refers to some thrusters ceasing to function. Issues arose from leaks in the helium tanks that control these thrusters prior to and during the Starliner’s launch, which resulted in multiple delays. Officials indicated last month that the spacecraft has an ample supply of helium onboard—70 hours’ worth, although only seven are needed for flight. They noted earlier this month that while the craft could theoretically return to Earth immediately, they are not yet prepared for that scenario.
The previous update indicated a potential return flight at the end of this month. However, the timeline has become less clear, with statements from Boeing and NASA suggesting that engineers will be disassembling and inspecting the thrusters while finalizing the rationale for the spacecraft’s return. The mission will see commander Butch Wilmore and pilot Suni Williams onboard during the upcoming weeks.