NASA administrator Bill Nelson revealed that US astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore are set to return with the SpaceX Crew-9 mission in February after spending over 80 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The decision to bring them back was based on the uncertainty surrounding the Starliner spacecraft’s thrusters, which led NASA to opt for an uncrewed return of the vehicle. The unpredictability of the data regarding the thrusters and the potential for failure during critical phases of the mission were deemed too risky for the crew aboard the spacecraft.
Responding to concerns about trusting Boeing again for future missions, NASA Associate Administrator Ken Bowersox acknowledged the tense discussions and emotional investment in the decision-making process. Despite the challenges faced, NASA remains committed to working with Boeing and ensuring that necessary adjustments are made to prevent similar issues in the future. The focus is on fostering a healthy discourse and rebuilding trust within the team after making difficult choices.
NASA Commercial Crew Program manager Steve Stich emphasized the importance of evaluating risks and performance predictions when it comes to crewed space missions. While acknowledging Boeing’s efforts in building a model for the Starliner spacecraft, there were disagreements regarding the level of risk associated with crewed flights. Stich highlighted the need for alignment in assessing risks and ensuring that the safety of astronauts remains a top priority in all missions.
Originally scheduled for an eight-day mission aboard the ISS, the Starliner spacecraft encountered thruster failures, helium leaks, and valve issues during its docking with the ISS. Tests conducted at NASA’s White Sands Test Facility revealed deformations in Teflon seals, which may have contributed to the thruster failures. The uncertainties surrounding the spacecraft’s performance necessitated a careful decision-making process on whether to return the astronauts via the Starliner or coordinate with SpaceX for the Crew-9 mission in February next year.
The return of US astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore with the SpaceX Crew-9 mission underscores the complexities and challenges faced in crewed space missions. The prioritization of astronaut safety, uncertainties surrounding spacecraft performance, and rebuilding trust within the team and with commercial partners like Boeing are vital aspects of ensuring the success of future missions to the ISS and beyond. Collaboration, open communication, and a commitment to addressing issues and implementing necessary changes are essential for the advancement of human space exploration.
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