NASA: Chances Grow Astronauts May Switch to SpaceX for Ride Home
After a bumpy ride to the International Space Station (ISS), two NASA astronauts may now face an extended stay. Boeing’s Starliner capsule, which was supposed to bring them back to Earth, has experienced technical difficulties, raising concerns about its safety.
NASA is now considering switching the astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, to a SpaceX vehicle for their return trip. If this happens, they would have to wait for the next SpaceX crew flight, scheduled for late September, leaving them stranded on the ISS for an additional eight months.
Safety Concerns and Alternative Options
The Starliner capsule has faced several setbacks, including thruster failures and helium leaks. While the capsule was able to dock with the ISS, NASA officials remain uncertain about its ability to bring the astronauts home safely.
As a result, the space agency is split on whether to risk sending the astronauts back in the Starliner or opt for the safer option of using SpaceX. Additional experts are being brought in to analyze the situation.
Boeing, however, maintains that the capsule is safe and could still be used to return the astronauts. The company will need to modify the capsule’s software if it is to return without a crew.
Backup Taxi Service and Future Plans
NASA’s desire for a backup taxi service is highlighted by this situation. Currently, the agency relies on SpaceX and Boeing for astronaut transportation, but incidents like this emphasize the need for multiple options.
The next SpaceX crew flight, originally scheduled for August, has been delayed to late September to accommodate Starliner’s return. Three NASA astronauts and one Russian are assigned to the flight, and it is unclear who, if anyone, would be bumped in favor of Wilmore and Williams.
Conclusion
The decision on whether to switch the astronauts to SpaceX is expected by mid-August. If they do, it will be a major setback for Boeing, which has already faced delays and setbacks with the Starliner program.
However, NASA’s priority remains the safety of its astronauts, and they will ultimately make the decision that they believe is best to ensure their well-being.
