 "Starliner Readies for Risky Undocking Amid Propulsion Glitches Before Return")
NASA has set September 6 as the date for the undocking of the uncrewed Boeing Starliner capsule. This decision follows a thorough review of the spacecraft’s recent performance. Last week, NASA announced that the astronauts who flew aboard the Starliner to the International Space Station in June will be returning to Earth on a SpaceX vehicle early next year. The Starliner faced propulsion system issues during its mission, making a crewed return too risky. The entire journey back to Earth is expected to take around six hours, and ground teams will remotely manage the spacecraft’s maneuvers for a safe undocking, re-entry, and parachute landing in New Mexico. Notably, Starliner has successfully completed two uncrewed orbital flight tests in the past.
NASA has announced that the uncrewed Boeing Starliner capsule will undock no earlier than September 6, following a thorough review process. This decision was made after the capsule faced propulsion system issues that were deemed too risky for a crewed return.
Just last week, NASA informed that the two astronauts who traveled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Starliner in June will return to Earth early next year using a SpaceX vehicle.
The journey for the Starliner back to Earth is expected to take around six hours, from the moment it undocks until it lands at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico. During this phase, ground teams will guide the spacecraft remotely through its undocking, re-entry, and parachute-assisted landing procedures, ensuring a safe return.
It is worth noting that Starliner has successfully completed two uncrewed orbital flight tests in the past. This upcoming mission represents a significant step for NASA in its ongoing partnership with Boeing and its commitment to advancing space travel.
Last Updated: August 30, 2024 | 9:23 AM IST
First Published: August 30, 2024 | 9:23 AM IST
Tags: NASA, Starliner, Boeing, SpaceX, ISS, space travel, uncrewed mission
What is the Boeing Starliner capsule?
The Boeing Starliner is a space capsule designed to carry cargo and astronauts to the International Space Station.
When could the Starliner return to Earth?
NASA reports that the Starliner could return by late next week.
How long has the Starliner been in space?
The Starliner has been in space for several days as part of its uncrewed test flight.
What will happen after the Starliner returns?
After its return, teams will check the capsule and analyze data from the mission.
Why is the Starliner important?
The Starliner helps NASA transport astronauts to the space station, which is important for space exploration and research.
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