The Boeing CST-100 Starliner crew has received encouraging news regarding their impending return to Earth. Following the recent completion of ground testing for the spacecraft’s thrusters, which have left the vessel in space since early June, both Boeing and NASA can now progress with plans for the mission’s homecoming.
An update late last week revealed that testing of the Starliner’s Reaction Control System (RCS) thruster was successfully conducted at the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico. The goal of these tests was to assess the degradation of the thrusters and to better understand the issues that led to some units being deselected during the flight. This insight will help in determining the potential impacts of restoring those thrusters to service in preparation for the Crew Flight Test.
It was previously noted that some thrusters ceased to function due to leaks in the helium tanks, which occurred before and during the Starliner launch. Despite this setback, the spacecraft was equipped with sufficient helium—70 hours’ worth—though it only requires seven for its operations. While officials have expressed confidence in the Starliner’s ability to return if necessary, they indicated that further preparations are needed before the mission can be completed.
As of the latest communication from NASA and Boeing, the timeline for the return flight, which could have occurred towards the end of this month, is now less definitive. Engineers will be working on disassembling and inspecting the thrusters while finalizing the necessary reviews for a safe and successful return.
This development marks a positive step forward for the Starliner mission, suggesting that the technology and teamwork involved are on track to overcome previous challenges. The collaboration between NASA and Boeing continues to demonstrate resilience and innovation, which bodes well for future missions and advancements in space exploration.
In summary, while there have been obstacles for the Starliner, the recent progress in thruster testing and the concerted efforts by the teams involved offer a hopeful outlook for the spacecraft’s eventual return to Earth.