NASA is facing a crucial decision by the end of August on whether to bring two astronauts back to Earth aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, which initially ferried them to the International Space Station (ISS), or opt for a return via SpaceX’s craft instead.
NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams launched to the ISS on June 5 aboard the Starliner for what was intended to be an eight-day mission. However, their return has been postponed due to issues with the spacecraft’s thrusters that surfaced during Boeing’s first crewed mission to the ISS.
During a press conference on Wednesday, NASA officials stated they are still analyzing the thruster data but acknowledged that a decision on the astronauts’ return vehicle is imminent.
Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of NASA’s Space Operations Mission Directorate, mentioned that while there’s no strict deadline, the timeline is becoming increasingly tight. “We’re reaching a point where that last week in August we really should be making a call, if not sooner,” he said.
The astronauts, although making the best of their extended stay on the ISS, are also eager for a decision, Bowersox added, noting that the primary concern revolves around the propulsion system, specifically ensuring a successful deorbit burn.
Despite the challenges, Bowersox confirmed that Boeing remains fully committed to its vehicle, with the company expressing confidence in Starliner’s capabilities.
Should NASA decide against using Starliner, SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, could potentially launch its Crew-9 mission to the ISS on September 24 with only two astronauts, rather than the usual four. This would allow the Crew Dragon capsule to bring Wilmore and Williams back to Earth in February 2025—a scenario that would be a significant setback for Boeing.
NASA’s chief astronaut, Joe Acaba, remarked that Wilmore and Williams were prepared for the mission as a test flight, aware that it might not go perfectly. “Human space flight is inherently risky, and as astronauts, we accept that as part of the job,” he said.
