Boeing’s Starliner capsule, known as “Calypso,” has received an extension to its mission at the International Space Station, double its original planned duration. This developmental mission, referred to as Boeing’s crew flight test, involves a series of tests being conducted on the Starliner while it is docked with the ISS. The mission marks the first time that the Starliner will carry crew members, with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams set to pilot the spacecraft back to Earth in the coming week.
Extended Duration
Initially scheduled for a nine-day mission, Calypso is now anticipated to return to Earth on June 22, stretching the duration of the Starliner crew flight test to at least 17 days. This extension allows for further testing of the spacecraft’s capabilities, such as operating the capsule’s hatch, firing seven thrusters, and monitoring the cabin’s air temperature. NASA and Boeing program managers, along with astronauts, are finalizing departure planning and operations during this prolonged stay.
As part of the extended mission, Starliner will undergo additional “safe haven” testing, although NASA did not provide specific details on the necessity of these tests. Safe haven tests involve the use of a spacecraft as a shelter in emergency situations on the ISS. NASA assured that Starliner remains cleared for crew emergency return scenarios within flight rules, indicating readiness for unexpected evacuations if needed.
Challenges Faced
Despite the successful launch and docking with the ISS, Starliner has encountered multiple issues during the mission. Before liftoff, a leak was detected in Calypso’s helium propulsion system, which was deemed stable and not a safety concern. However, four additional helium leaks emerged post-docking, raising concerns. Furthermore, a separate problem with the spacecraft’s propulsion system, specifically the reaction control system engines, surfaced during docking preparations.
Boeing has been actively troubleshooting the technical glitches, managing to recover four of the malfunctioning thrusters out of the total 28 onboard Starliner. NASA has mandated hot fire testing on seven thrusters near the spacecraft’s tail before undocking, aimed at evaluating their performance. These brief bursts of thrusters are crucial for assessing operational readiness before the spacecraft’s departure from the ISS.
Implications and Future Prospects
Despite the challenges faced during the mission, Boeing remains optimistic about the remaining duration and performance of the Starliner. The extended stay at the ISS allows for comprehensive testing and troubleshooting, crucial for NASA’s certification of Boeing for operational crewed missions. Starliner’s journey, once envisioned as a direct competitor to SpaceX’s Dragon, has faced setbacks and delays, positioning it as a backup option for NASA. The agency intends to alternate crewed trips between SpaceX and Boeing, leveraging both companies’ capabilities for space missions.