Starliner Expedition: Astronauts May Stay in Orbit Much Longer
Technology
On June 5, astronauts Suni Williams and Barry Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s "Starliner" spacecraft to the International Space Station, planning to return to Earth in eight days. However, their mission could now extend to eight months.
During a press conference on August 14, NASA officials announced yet another delay in the astronauts’ return. The exact date is expected to be decided by the end of August.
NASA specialists explained that the Starliner crew’s spacesuits are incompatible with other spacecraft, complicating their safe return. If the Starliner flight is deemed too risky, Williams and Wilmore may return on a SpaceX craft.
However, their return is more likely to occur in early 2024, extending their eight-day mission to eight months. NASA assured that the astronauts are in good condition and fully understood the risks of their mission.
The "Starliner" was launched on June 5 despite a minor helium leak in its fuel delivery system. Throughout the mission, four more leaks and five maneuvering engine failures were recorded.
NASA specialists explained that the Starliner crew’s spacesuits are incompatible with other spacecraft, complicating their safe return. If the Starliner flight is deemed too risky, Williams and Wilmore may return on a SpaceX craft.
However, their return is more likely to occur in early 2024, extending their eight-day mission to eight months. NASA assured that the astronauts are in good condition and fully understood the risks of their mission.
The "Starliner" was launched on June 5 despite a minor helium leak in its fuel delivery system. Throughout the mission, four more leaks and five maneuvering engine failures were recorded.
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