The crew of the Starliner believes that despite the malfunctions, the ship can return to Earth – Space – Science and technology

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, now docked at the International Space Station (ISS), is able to return safely to Earth despite malfunctions. Two astronauts of the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), who were transported to the ISS by a spacecraft and who were supposed to return a few weeks ago, stated this from orbit at a press conference on Wednesday.

Astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams

Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams were the first astronauts to go into space on a Boeing spacecraft in early June. However, their connection to the ISS was thwarted almost at the last moment by fuel leaks and problems with the guidance nozzles. The mission was originally supposed to last eight days with a return on June 14.

The astronauts said they expected to return once the teams on Earth had finished testing the thrusters. NASA did not mention the exact date at the press conference. According to the AP agency, both experienced pilots said that they do not mind the extended stay on the ISS, they use it for scientific work and help the permanent crew with maintenance.

NASA and Boeing are trying to solve problems on the brand new Starliner unit at a facility in New Mexico that is one of the landing sites for craft returning from space. According to them, the problem lies in the propulsion system, which is used to maneuver the spacecraft.

Five thrusters failed as the Starliner approached the orbital station on June 6. Four of them have since been activated. Mission Commander Wilmore said Wednesday that he and pilot Williams should have enough working thrusters to get them out of orbit and headed for Earth. If necessary, the larger Starliner engines can also be supplemented with guidance devices. “Failure is not an option. That’s why we’re staying here now,” Wilmore said.

Ten years ago, NASA ordered spacecraft from SpaceX and Boeing as part of a program of cooperation with commercial entities. While the first manned flight of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon took place in 2020, Boeing’s Starliner, due to numerous development delays and subsequent delays, finally took off with astronauts on June 5 this year.