Will Elon Musk's SpaceX rescue astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stuck in space? Here's what we know
Boeing's crewed space mission, which has faced many delays and technical problems, is causing worries as it will likely miss the planned date to bring back two NASA astronauts. Originally, Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore were supposed to come back to Earth from the International Space Station on June 22. But now, due to technical issues with the spacecraft, their return has been postponed to at least June 26.
Elon Musk's SpaceX might come to the rescue of Sunita Williams and her colleague Butch Wilmore, who are currently stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) due to a troubling helium leak in their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
Why Astronauts Stranded in Space?
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams is currently stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) due to technical problems discovered in the Boeing spaceship they traveled in. Originally scheduled to return on June 26, it is now uncertain when Williams and her crewmate Butch Wilmore will be able to begin their journey back to Earth.
The Boeing Starliner, on its debut mission, has encountered several technical glitches, resulting in two launch delays. These persistent setbacks have raised concerns, exacerbated by allegations that the spaceship's issues were known beforehand.
The ISS, often described as a "mini city in space," serves as a research hub for astronauts from various space agencies worldwide.
Williams and Wilmore arrived at the ISS on June 5 and were initially slated to depart on June 26. NASA announced on June 22 that their stay on the space station would be extended.
According to reports, the Starliner has faced challenges including five helium leaks and issues with five out of its 28 thrusters, with at least 14 thrusters required for a safe return.
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Steve Stich, NASA's commercial crew program manager, stated that the spaceship performed well while docked at the space station. The extended stay is being utilized to facilitate critical station activities and prepare for the astronauts' departure.
Williams, on her third space mission, had previously praised the Starliner as a "fantastic spacecraft."
However, allegations of negligence persist against Boeing. Whistleblowers have claimed that both Boeing and NASA managers were aware of technical faults with the Starliner before launch but proceeded regardless, deeming the issues too minor to postpone.
Multiple reports indicate that at least 20 whistleblowers have accused NASA of downplaying concerns and neglecting safety issues from the outset. Similar safety concerns against Boeing have been raised in the past.
David Calhoun, CEO of Boeing, defended the company's safety record during a recent Congressional hearing, stating they are proud of their safety practices.
Concerns about the Starliner extend to the astronauts' remaining fuel for their return journey, reportedly 27 days, though NASA asserts there is no urgency due to sufficient supplies aboard the station.
Additionally, ISS residents are dealing with a "superbug" called 'Enterobacter bugandensis,' a multi-drug resistant bacteria thriving in the enclosed environment of the ISS, affecting respiratory systems.
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Can Elon Musk's SpaceX Rescue Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore?
There’s a possibility that SpaceX might be called upon to bring Williams and Wilmore back using its Crew Dragon spacecraft, reported in HT. This situation would be a significant setback for Boeing, already facing $1.5 billion in cost overruns beyond its $4.5 billion NASA contract.
Despite the seriousness, NASA and Boeing officials have downplayed the need for SpaceX's intervention. They assert that the current issues with the Starliner do not require external help. Nevertheless, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, which recently transported four astronauts to the ISS in March, remains ready for the task. It can accommodate up to four passengers, providing room for additional occupants in an emergency.
Since 2020, SpaceX has been the only commercial company approved to transport astronauts and cargo to the ISS, highlighting the competition and challenges within the commercial spaceflight sector.
What Next?
Astronauts Wilmore and Williams will stay aboard the ISS until at least July 2 as officials investigate the helium leaks in the Starliner. Michael Lembeck, an aerospace engineering professor and former Boeing spaceflight consultant, believes the Starliner will still likely be the return vehicle. He stated, "The need for SpaceX to step up is very low. A big problem would have to arise in the next few days to warrant that reaction."
NASA’s decision to delay the astronauts' return allows more time to study the Starliner while it’s docked at the ISS, ensuring a thorough understanding of the issue. The capsule carrying the astronauts will return to Earth, but the service module, housing the engines, fuel, and helium tanks, will not. Despite the leaks, officials assure that Wilmore and Williams can still return home safely if necessary.
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A Significant Challenge for Boeing's Space Efforts
Experts believe that a rescue mission involving SpaceX would imply serious, potentially life-threatening defects with the Starliner. The last time NASA needed external help to bring an astronaut home was in 2022 when a Russian Soyuz capsule leak stranded American astronaut Frank Rubio. Although NASA considered SpaceX for that rescue, Rubio returned on an empty Soyuz capsule launched by Russia, extending his mission to a record-breaking 371 days.
Boeing's struggles highlight the high stakes and challenges of commercial spaceflight, with the recent incident serving as a significant setback to making the Starliner a viable option for ISS missions.
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