📷 Image Credits: Ahmedabad Mirror
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who embarked on a test drive of Boeing’s new capsule, are currently facing delays in their return from the International Space Station. Originally anticipated to make a quick trip back home, the astronauts have now been stuck in space for three weeks and counting due to equipment problems that arose during their journey. The Starliner capsule, developed by Boeing, encountered several issues, including thruster troubles and helium leaks, leading to the postponement of their landing.
NASA has decided to extend their stay at the space station to ensure a safe return for the astronauts. The propulsion system on the Starliner capsule, crucial for maneuvering in flight, faced issues during docking, with five thrusters going down. While most thrusters were successfully restarted, one remained faulty and had to be turned off. Additionally, multiple helium leaks were detected during the mission, with the cause suspected to be a faulty rubber seal.
Boeing and NASA are actively working to address these technical challenges before scheduling a new landing date for the astronauts. Mission managers continue to analyze the thruster problems and helium leaks to ensure a smooth return trip. Despite the setbacks, both agencies are confident in Starliner’s capability to safely bring Butch and Suni back to Earth. The astronauts have been assisting with research and system checks at the space station while awaiting their return.
The delayed mission also accommodates a postponed spacewalk that was initially scheduled for June 13 but had to be rescheduled due to issues with an astronaut’s spacesuit. This rescheduled spacewalk will now take place on June 24, ahead of the astronauts’ departure. The extended stay in space allows NASA and Boeing to conduct further evaluations and testing to guarantee the success of future Starliner missions.
As NASA works through the technical challenges faced by the Starliner capsule, the astronauts remain in good spirits, prepared for any contingencies that may arise during their return journey. The delays highlight the complexities and inherent risks involved in space travel, underscoring the importance of thorough testing and assessment of spacecraft systems before embarking on crewed missions.
