Synopsis

In a recent development in space exploration, Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams and her NASA colleague Butch Wilmore went to space on June  5 through Boeing Starliner. The veteran astronauts were launched to the ISS ( International Space Station) for what was expected to be an eight-day test mission, a notable figure in spaceflight. Their homecoming was delayed for weeks and NASA announced they will return home with Elon Musk’s SpaceX next year February 2025. 

Why the Starliner is Returning Without Williams?

Sunita Williams, a veteran astronaut with multiple space missions, was part of the initial crew slated for this Boeing Starliner mission. NASA administrator Bill Nelson said the decision to keep astronauts on the space station is the commitment to safety. Boeing Starliner will return uncrewed, and he added “Our core value is Safety”.

However, the space flights are risky. He told reporters the same “ Space flight is risky even though it is safest and its most routine”. A test flight by nature is neither safe nor routine”.

Boeing’s Starliner 

After years of delays, Boeing’s Starliner finally lifted off on June 5 carrying Sunita Williams along with Butch Wilmore, as they were military test pilots to the space station. But a day later as Starliner was approaching the ISS, NASA and Boeing identified that Helium was leaking and experienced issues with the spacecraft’s reaction control thrusters.

Five of Starliner’s 28 thrusters failed during flight and sprang several leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thruster. It still reached the space station, which has housed rotating crews of astronauts for over 2 decades.

NASA feared the capsule would not be able to achieve the thrust necessary to return to Earth and decided to transfer the two astronauts to a SpaceX mission and return the Starliner empty to Earth.

US Space Agency said, “While uncrewed return back NASA continue gathering testing data on Starliner during its upcoming flight home, also not accepting more risk than necessary for its crew”.

Elon Musk’s Unprecedented Support

SpaceX’s CEO Elon Musk has extended a helping hand to the situation. As we know, SpaceX and Boeing are direct competitors in the commercial spaceflight industry, Musk gives a broader commitment to bring both astronauts to Earth on Crew Dragon Space Craft. 

As per the new plan, the SpaceX Crew-9 mission will take off in early September after the Starliner heads earthward, freeing a docking port on the ISS. It carries only two passengers instead of the originally planned four to make room for Ms. Sunita and Mr.Butch.

The Broader Implications

This decision highlights the dynamic nature of space missions, where their intelligence in changing the plans rapidly shows their dedication towards the Space missions. This illustrates the supportive relationships that exist even among competing aerospace companies. 

Here it is, Elon’s support to NASA  demonstrated for advancing space exploration and ensuring astronaut safety which brings together rivals in a common cause. This support and togetherness not only helps astronauts but also the upcoming students and the bond increases between the space workers as well. What do you think? Elon’s assistance can save them without failure. Drop your opinions. Subscribe to our Newsletter to stay tuned to new updates.

Website: https://www.futurelift.in/ 

FAQS

• Who went to Boeing Starliner?

Ans: Sunita Williams and her NASA Colleague Butch Wilmore.

• Who has offered help for Sunita and her colleague?

Ans: Elon Musk the CEO of SpaceX offered help for Sunita and Butch.

• What happened with Starline in its expedition?

Ans: Five of Starliner’s 28 thrusters failed during flight and sprang several leaks of helium, which is used to pressurize the thruster.

• Are Space X and Boeing Competitors?

Ans: Yes, SpaceX and Boeing are direct competitors in the commercial spacecraft industry.

• What has Elon Musk committed for the safety return of the veteran passengers?

Ans: Musk has given a broader commitment to bring both astronauts to Earth on Crew Dragon Space Craft.