The Boeing Starliner saga continues. The spacecraft, designed to transport astronauts between Earth and the International Space Station (ISS), is now making its first crewed test flight. However, the week-long test stretches on for months.
Two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, are “trapped” on the ISS – they have been on the orbital outpost for more than seven weeks. Although NASA says they can use the Starliner in case of an emergency, a date for their return is still uncertain due to identified problems with the spacecraft.
Starliner engine problems
On July 25, NASA shared details on testing Starliner engines, some of which failed during docking with the ISS. In White Sands, New Mexico, engineers test a Starliner engine intended for future missions to determine the cause of the failures. The problem is related to the frequency of the pulses, not the strength or number of pulses. A similar problem was found in the engine under test.
“We are in the process of dismantling the engine. We are taking a close look at the fuel valve and the oxidizer valve. The problem may be a seal on one of the valves,” said Steve Stich, NASA’s commercial crew program manager.
An important question is whether the thruster will survive the return flight to Earth. Current tests indicate that it will, but NASA plans to conduct more tests to be sure of the astronauts’ safety. The next important test, during which 27 Starliner engines will be launched into orbit, is scheduled for this weekend.
Helium leaks and battery problems
In addition to engine problems, Starliner had a helium leak on its way to the station. After docking, the manifolds were closed, but now they are being pressure tested to avoid repeated leaks.
There were also problems with the batteries, which were only designed to last 45 days in space. Starliner has now exceeded that time frame, so the battery life has been extended to 90 days.
While testing any spacecraft often reveals problems, and both Williams and Wilmore speak favorably of their experiences with Starliner, the constant problems and lack of a quick solution are wearing out the patience of the space community. Questions arise regarding NASA’s communication during this time. At the same time, the date of the astronauts’ return remains uncertain.
Earlier we reported on how Starliner was seen through a telescope during docking with the ISS.
According to Space
