Boeing has announced another delay for its first crewed flight on the Starliner spacecraft, this time due to a helium leak. This latest issue is one of several setbacks that have plagued the Boeing Starliner test flight over the years. The launch, originally scheduled for last week and then rescheduled for Friday, has now been pushed to next Tuesday at the earliest.
Boeing’s first Starliner mission carrying astronauts into space has been delayed again — until at least May 21 — over an issue with the spacecraft’s propulsion system, the company says. https://t.co/2OLvG1AMxF
— NBC News (@NBCNews) May 14, 2024
Background on Starliner Delays
Boeing and NASA had high hopes of launching the Starliner test flight last week. However, a malfunctioning valve in the liquid oxygen tank’s pressure regulation system caused a delay. Although the United Launch Alliance (a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing) replaced and tested the valve successfully, a helium leak in the propulsion system has now caused further delays.
Boeing plans to pressurize the propulsion system and allow the helium to vent naturally. Despite this setback, Boeing has stated that no other issues are currently being tracked. “The company said it is not tracking any other issues,” Boeing noted in a statement.
Previous Challenges Faced by Boeing’s Starliner
Boeing’s Starliner has faced numerous challenges since its inception. The first test flight in late 2019, which was uncrewed, encountered software issues that prevented the spacecraft from reaching the International Space Station (ISS). A subsequent launch attempt in 2021 was thwarted by corroded valves in the service module.
An uncrewed test mission in 2022 successfully reached the ISS, but post-flight inspections revealed problems with the parachute system and flammable tape in the capsule. These issues had to be addressed before the upcoming crewed flight could proceed.
The Upcoming Crewed Flight Test
The impending crewed flight test is crucial for Boeing. NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore are currently in quarantine awaiting the launch. If successful, this mission will certify Starliner for regular crew rotation missions to the ISS, similar to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon missions which have been operational since 2020.
“The upcoming crewed flight test would allow humans to fly on board and test the capsule’s life-support systems,” Boeing explained. Liftoff is now tentatively scheduled for 4:43 p.m. next Tuesday from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
#Starliner’s Crew Flight Test is now targeted to launch no earlier than 4:43 p.m. ET on Tuesday, May 21, to complete additional testing.
Learn more: https://t.co/KUYQsPdbzM
— Boeing Space (@BoeingSpace) May 14, 2024
Future of NASA’s Crew Missions
With SpaceX already providing crewed missions to the ISS since 2020, Boeing’s successful certification would provide NASA with an additional option for crew transportation. This is essential for maintaining a consistent human presence in space and ensuring the ISS remains fully staffed.
Boeing and NASA continue to work diligently to resolve the helium leak and ensure the upcoming launch is a success. The aerospace industry and space enthusiasts worldwide are closely watching this mission, hoping for a successful flight that will pave the way for future manned space missions.
For more on the challenges and triumphs of space exploration, check here.
What Does the Future Hold for Boeing’s Starliner?
The continued delays in the Boeing Starliner test flight highlight the complexities and challenges of space exploration. We are eager to see Boeing and NASA overcome these hurdles and achieve a successful crewed flight. What are your thoughts on the latest developments with the Starliner spacecraft? Share your views in the comments below!
Photo by Sven Piper on Unsplash
