The manned mission of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft’s return to Earth postponed
The first manned mission of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft’s return to Earth has been postponed due to technical issues. The Starliner will remain attached to the International Space Station (ISS) until at least July 2. NASA astronauts were scheduled to return on June 26, but the decision was made to allow for additional analysis of the technical issues that have arisen with the spacecraft.
Delays attributed to helium leaks and engine problems
NASA and Boeing have delayed the return of the Starliner spacecraft with astronauts Barry Wilmore and Suni Williams on board, in order to further study the helium leaks and engine problems that were detected during the mission. Four out of five of the Starliner’s engines experienced malfunctions, with the causes being attributed to overheating.
Identifying the cause of engine malfunctions
Preliminary results from tests on the Starliner spacecraft showed that the engines were overheating, leading to the malfunctions. Further analysis is required to understand the issues and ensure the safe return of the spacecraft to Earth.
