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Boeing Starliner's Next Flight: Cargo Only Amid Safety Checks
25 Nov
Summary
- Boeing Starliner's next flight will carry only cargo due to safety concerns.
- Astronauts will be kept off the next Starliner mission until safety is proven.
- The number of planned Starliner flights has been reduced from six to four.
Boeing and NASA have postponed crewed missions for the Starliner spacecraft, opting instead for a cargo-only test flight. This decision follows significant technical challenges encountered during the capsule's inaugural crewed flight, which saw astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams return to Earth aboard a SpaceX capsule after an extended stay on the International Space Station. Engineers have been meticulously investigating issues with Starliner's thrusters and other systems.
The next uncrewed cargo mission is slated for no earlier than April, contingent upon successful completion of additional tests and NASA's certification. This cautious approach underscores a commitment to astronaut safety. The agency is also revising the overall flight plan, reducing the number of planned Starliner missions from six down to four.
With the International Space Station scheduled for decommissioning in 2030, the remaining three Starliner flights, if the upcoming cargo mission proves successful, will focus solely on crew exchanges. This strategic adjustment prioritizes demonstrating Starliner's reliability before its intended operational role.
