A major update has emerged regarding the NASA and Boeing joint project, Starliner. NASA has announced that the Boeing CST-100 Starliner has been grounded until 2026. This means it will not fly any crewed missions for the time being. This decision was made after several serious technical issues surfaced during its crew test in June 2024.
Problems Arising During Last Year's Mission
The Boeing Starliner embarked on a crucial mission last year, which included astronaut Sunita Williams of Indian origin, along with other astronauts. This mission was destined for the International Space Station (ISS). However, the capsule suddenly encountered problems during the mission, necessitating its return. NASA, prioritizing safety, decided to allow the astronauts to remain on the ISS and send the capsule back to Earth without a crew.
Helium Leakage and Thruster Failure at the Root of the Problem
The primary cause of the Boeing Starliner's technical malfunction was helium gas leakage. According to NASA, helium was continuously leaking from inside the capsule during the flight test. In addition, a malfunction was detected in the thrusters, i.e., the control engines. Five out of the 28 control thrusters stopped working, making it difficult to control the capsule.
Increased Research and Improvement Work After the Flight
Following this incident, NASA and Boeing jointly initiated an investigation. Each system was re-checked, and a detailed report was prepared. However, several other shortcomings came to light during the investigation. Improvements were deemed necessary for several Starliner components. Technical modifications were deemed necessary in every part, from software to hardware.
Next Flight to be Conducted Without a Crew
According to NASA officials, the Boeing Starliner will not be used for human missions until all its technical flaws are resolved. In the next test flight, it will be sent without a crew. Only if this flight is completely successful will it be re-approved for human transport.
Improvements May Take Until 2026
Considering the current situation, NASA believes that it may take until 2026 to completely fix the Starliner. This includes several technical processes such as testing new parts, system upgrades, and full-scale simulations. In addition, safety standards will be reviewed several times.
Another Obstacle in Boeing's Space Journey
Boeing has long been actively involved in space missions in collaboration with NASA. However, the continuous delays and technical glitches in the Starliner project over the past few years have affected the credibility of this mission. Earlier, some test flights of this space capsule had also been unsuccessful. Now, this latest development has once again derailed the company's space journey.
No Compromise on NASA's Safety Priority
According to NASA, the safety of astronauts is paramount. For this reason, no compromise will be made. Even if a project is delayed, human missions will not be authorized until safety is guaranteed in all aspects.
Spacecraft's Future Depends on the Test
Now, the next trial of Starliner will be conducted without a crew. NASA plans to send it into space again by the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026 after testing all systems. This trial will determine whether it will be used again for crewed missions in the future or not.
NASA and Boeing's Collaboration Will Continue
Despite these challenges, the relationship between NASA and Boeing will continue. Both organizations are working together to make Starliner a reliable space vehicle in the coming years. Until the technical flaws are completely removed, this project will not take flight.
