The Boeing CST-100 Starliner crew recently received encouraging news regarding their anticipated return home. The spacecraft has been stuck in space since early June, but ground testing of its thrusters has been successfully completed, paving the way for planning the return trip. Boeing and NASA had been awaiting the outcome of these tests before making any decisions about the spacecraft’s homecoming.
An update provided last week confirmed that ground tests of the Starliner’s Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters were conducted at the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico. The focus of these tests was to observe any potential degradation in the thrusters, allowing engineers to understand why some thrusters had been de-selected during flight and evaluate the implications of potentially reactivating them.
The term “de-selected” refers to the malfunctioning thrusters. There were issues with the helium tanks that control the thrusters, which led to delays both before and during the Starliner launch. Interestingly, despite the challenges, officials noted that the spacecraft is equipped with 70 hours of helium, although only seven hours are necessary for its operation. They indicated earlier this month that while the spacecraft could theoretically return right away, the timing for a return is still under careful consideration.
In the latest statements from NASA and Boeing, the timeline for a potential return flight has shifted. While there was talk of a return at the end of this month, it has since become less specific. Engineers are now focusing on disassembling and inspecting the thrusters, along with finalizing their assessments to prepare for the spacecraft’s safe return to Earth with commander Butch Wilmore and pilot Suni Williams.
This marks a significant step forward in the Starliner’s journey, and while the crew remains in space a bit longer, there is optimism surrounding the upcoming inspections and eventual return home. With dedicated teams working diligently to ensure a safe landing, the future looks promising for both the astronauts involved and the continuation of Boeing’s efforts in space exploration.
Overall, this situation highlights the resilience of space missions, where teams adapt and optimize plans in the pursuit of successful outcomes.