WASHINGTON: NASA officials said that the two astronauts delivered to the International Space Station in June by Boeing’s Starliner could return on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon in February 2025 if Starliner is still deemed unsafe to return to Earth.
NASA has been in talks with SpaceX to potentially reserve two seats on a forthcoming Crew Dragon mission for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, the first to pilot Boeing’s Starliner.
Initially, Wilmore and Williams’ mission was expected to last around eight days. However, complications with Starliner’s propulsion system have extended their stay and raised concerns about the spacecraft’s safety for their return. A Boeing representative mentioned that if NASA opts for an alternative return plan, the company will prepare Starliner for an unmanned descent.
The Starliner faced thruster failures and helium leaks during its June approach to the ISS, prompting a rigorous testing phase to diagnose and rectify these issues. This testing has led to internal disagreements within NASA about the spacecraft’s readiness for a manned return. Should NASA decide against using Starliner, switching to Crew Dragon would mark a significant setback for Boeing, which has been competing with SpaceX for years.
The Starliner, currently docked at the ISS, has been there for 63 days out of its 90-day limit and occupies the port needed for Crew Dragon’s next mission. In the meantime, NASA, using a SpaceX rocket and a Northrop Grumman capsule, delivered supplies, including clothing for Wilmore and Williams.
The mission represents Starliner’s final test before NASA can approve it for regular astronaut transport to the ISS. Since its development began, Starliner has been plagued by management and engineering problems, costing Boeing $1.6 billion, including $125 million for the current test mission.
NASA’s Commercial Crew Program recently held a meeting that highlighted concerns and disagreements over relying on Starliner for the astronauts’ return. No definitive decision has been made, but NASA is allowing Boeing additional time for further testing. A decision is anticipated next week.
