Starliner's Troubled Journey: Astronauts to Return on SpaceX, Not Boeing

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, after a fraught test flight, will return to Earth empty, with the two astronauts who boarded it returning home aboard a SpaceX capsule. This decision by NASA, announced on Saturday, marks a significant setback for Boeing's beleaguered space programme and signifies a shift in the space agency's reliance on SpaceX for astronaut transport.

The astronauts, Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Sunita "Suni" Williams, were initially slated for an eight-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS). However, unforeseen technical glitches during their journey have extended their stay to a remarkable eight months.

The decision to bring the astronauts back on a SpaceX capsule comes after weeks of investigation into helium leaks and erratic behaviour of Starliner's thrusters. The complexity of these issues raised serious concerns about the spacecraft's safety, with NASA officials prioritising the well-being of the astronauts.

"Space flight is inherently risky, even at its most routine," acknowledged NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, citing the tragic loss of two space shuttles and their crews as a stark reminder of the gravity of the situation. "Our core value is safety, and it is our North Star."

The unexpected turn of events has been met with disappointment by Boeing, which has faced a series of setbacks with its Starliner programme. A 2019 uncrewed test flight failed to reach the ISS, and a subsequent crewed test flight in 2022, though deemed successful, revealed worrying issues with flammable adhesive tape. These challenges have delayed Starliner's first operational flight with astronauts.

NASA's decision to rely on SpaceX for astronaut transport highlights the latter's growing dominance in the commercial space sector. Since 2020, SpaceX has consistently provided reliable taxi services to and from the ISS, while Starliner remains yet to complete a crewed round-trip flight.

Though the delayed return will necessitate a longer stay on the ISS for the astronauts, they expressed support for NASA's decision. "That just became the easiest and the best option, and the most efficient option," explained Steve Stich, manager of NASA's Commercial Crew Program.

Meanwhile, Boeing remains committed to resolving the issues with Starliner. The company, in a statement, affirmed its priority of ensuring the safety of the crew and spacecraft, and outlined plans for a safe and successful uncrewed return.

NASA officials have scheduled a meeting next week to discuss Starliner's return, with the possibility of it undocking from the ISS and returning to Earth as early as next month. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial for the future of Boeing's space programme and its role in the future of human space exploration.