Boeing Starliner faces technical issues: How will astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams return to Earth?

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Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, carrying astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, is gearing up for its return journey from the International Space Station (ISS) despite facing technical challenges since its June 5 liftoff. The capsule has encountered five helium leaks, five maneuvering thruster failures, and a propellant valve issue, requiring extensive troubleshooting by the crew and mission control in Houston.

Delayed Return

NASA has postponed the return of the astronauts three times, with no set date yet. Starliner can remain docked at the ISS for up to 45 days, potentially extending to 72 days if needed. The latest internal return goal is July 6, significantly prolonging what was initially planned as an eight-day mission.

Technical Hurdles
The primary concern revolves around Starliner's propulsion system, critical for its departure from the ISS and reentry into Earth's atmosphere. Overheating thrusters and helium leaks, likely related to usage frequency, have emerged as major obstacles. Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew manager, expressed confidence in a safe return following recent test-firings of the thrusters, but further tests and reviews are ongoing.

Mission Management

Boeing's Starliner return to Earth postponed, NASA says no new date set

NASA and Boeing's mission management team is actively analyzing propulsion data, conducting simulations in Houston, and exploring potential solutions, such as software updates or