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The Boeing Starliner spacecraft, docked at the International Space Station (ISS) for nearly two months, is grappling with severe technical issues that have left two astronauts stranded in space.
The spacecraft’s thrusters have malfunctioned, casting uncertainty on the root cause of the problem and its resolution. This critical situation has sparked discussions about the astronauts potentially returning to Earth on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft instead.
Boeing is facing intense scrutiny over its handling of the situation. Critics argue that SpaceX might be better equipped to manage the rescue mission, given its successful track record with the Dragon spacecraft. This incident has raised significant concerns about Boeing’s future in space travel and the overall safety and reliability of its spacecraft.
According to NASA, the thruster issue was identified shortly after the Starliner docked with the ISS. Initial troubleshooting efforts have not yielded a definitive solution, and engineers are working around the clock to diagnose and rectify the problem. The situation has also prompted an internal review at Boeing, with a focus on the spacecraft’s design and pre-flight testing procedures.
SpaceX, which has successfully completed numerous missions to the ISS using its Dragon spacecraft, has been suggested as a potential backup option. The Dragon spacecraft has a proven track record, having successfully ferried astronauts to and from the ISS under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. In light of the Starliner issues, NASA is considering utilizing SpaceX’s capabilities to ensure the safe return of the astronauts.
NEWS: It appears the crippled Boeing Starliner, which has marooned two astronauts up in space for almost two months, may have completely failed.
It’s now highly likely the stranded astronauts will end up leaving the International Space Station on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. pic.twitter.com/e8R8DgeIjg
— ALEX (@ajtourville) August 4, 2024
Boeing Starliner problems, cont’d. One possibility: have SpaceX bring the astronauts home. https://t.co/vhvlYRH5Jq
— Steven Dennis (@StevenTDennis) August 4, 2024
Boeing Starliner problems, cont’d. One possibility: have SpaceX bring the astronauts home. https://t.co/vhvlYRH5Jq
— Steven Dennis (@StevenTDennis) August 4, 2024