NASA Is Still Deciding How to Bring Boeing Starliner Astronauts Home

NASA and Boeing are currently in the midst of determining the best course of action for bringing back astronauts aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. The Starliner, which recently completed its uncrewed test flight to the International Space Station, encountered a series of technical issues that prevented it from reaching its intended orbit.

The spacecraft was originally scheduled to dock with the ISS for a week before returning to Earth, but due to the issues encountered during its mission, NASA and Boeing are now faced with the task of deciding how to bring the Starliner astronauts home safely.

One option being considered is for the Starliner to remain on orbit for an extended period of time while engineers work to resolve the technical issues. This would allow the astronauts to stay aboard the spacecraft until it is deemed safe for reentry. However, this option presents its own set of challenges, as it would require the astronauts to stay in space longer than originally planned and could potentially impact future missions.

Another option being considered is for the astronauts to return to Earth aboard a different spacecraft. NASA has a contract with SpaceX to provide crew transportation services to the ISS using its Crew Dragon spacecraft, and it is possible that the astronauts could return home using this alternative means of transportation.

Ultimately, the decision on how to bring the Starliner astronauts home will depend on a variety of factors, including the safety of the astronauts, the status of the spacecraft, and the availability of alternative transportation options. NASA and Boeing are working closely together to assess all possible options and determine the best course of action for ensuring the safe return of the astronauts aboard the Starliner.

In the meantime, the astronauts aboard the Starliner are safe and in good spirits, and are continuing to work closely with mission control to monitor the situation and assist with troubleshooting efforts. NASA and Boeing are committed to ensuring the safety and success of the mission, and are working diligently to resolve the technical issues and bring the astronauts home safely.