NASA once again postpones the return of the Starliner capsule to Earth

NASA has confirmed that the Starliner capsule, docked to the International Space Station, should return to Earth only after tests carried out in July

The return of the Starliner capsule to Earth should only take place starting from July: in a note published last Friday (21st), NASA AND Boeing they postponed the ship’s return once again. The decision was made so the team could gather more data on problems with the spacecraft’s thrusters and helium leaks.

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The American space agency had already postponed the reentry to the end of June, but had to extend the deadline days later. Now, a new date for the return is expected to be announced only after the spacewalks scheduled for June 24 and July 2.

According to NASA’s Commercial Crew Program Manager Steve Stich, the measure is part of standard mission management and the team intends to “let the data drive the decision making” to resolve problems.

What happens to the Starliner capsule?

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has completed its first crewed mission in history arrived at the International Space Station on June 6 (late, it’s true). However, the capsule is currently docked to the ISS and has not returned to Earth due to some technical problems: helium gas leaks were found in the propulsion system and some thrusters stopped working.

To ensure the safety of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who make up the crew, NASA has decided to postpone their return to Earth. The agency reports that four of the five thrusters that had problems have already been repaired.

In the latest note, Steve Stich confirmed that “Starliner performs well in orbit when docked with the International Space Station” and that the extra time is being “used strategically to clear the way for some critical activities as we complete preparations for the return of Butch and Suni”. and gain valuable insights into system updates for post-certification missions.”

Finally, NASA confirms that Starliner would be free to return to Earth if an emergency occurred on the ISS requiring the return of the crew.

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Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.