After a thorough agency-level review, NASA has decided that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX-crewed Dragon mission in February next year, as issues with Starliner's propulsion system deemed it unsafe for the crew's return. The decision was made after careful consideration by agency administrator Bill Nelson and collaboration with Boeing. The inherent risks of space travel were also emphasized, with a commitment to further understand and improve upon the Starliner's design to ensure safety for future missions.
NASA Announces Change in Astronaut Return Mission Due to Starliner Propulsion Issues
Background:
NASA has been collaborating with Boeing on the development of the Starliner spacecraft, intended to serve as a human-rated transportation system to and from the International Space Station (ISS). However, recent propulsion system issues have raised concerns about the safety of the spacecraft for astronaut return missions.
Current Situation:
Following a thorough review, NASA has decided that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX Dragon mission in February 2024. This decision was made due to concerns about Starliner's propulsion system, which NASA deemed unsafe for the crew's return.
Decision-Making Process:
The decision was reached after careful consideration by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, in collaboration with Boeing. NASA emphasized the inherent risks of space travel and the importance of prioritizing astronaut safety. The agency remains committed to understanding and improving the Starliner's design to ensure its safety for future missions.
FAQs:
1. Why was the decision made to change the return mission? Answer: Concerns about the safety of Starliner's propulsion system led NASA to deem it unsafe for the crew's return.
2. What happens to the Starliner spacecraft? Answer: Starliner will not be used for this particular astronaut return mission, as the focus is on ensuring the safety of the crew.
3. What happens to Boeing's contract with NASA? Answer: NASA will continue to work with Boeing to understand and address the issues with the Starliner spacecraft and ensure its future safety.
4. How will the astronauts return to Earth? Answer: Astronauts Williams and Wilmore will return to Earth on a SpaceX Dragon mission, which NASA has deemed safe for their return.
5. When will the next Starliner mission take place? Answer: NASA has not announced a specific timeline for the next Starliner mission, pending the resolution of propulsion system issues and safety concerns.
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