NASA, Boeing Scrub Starliner Launch to the ISS Due to Oxygen Relief Valve Faults

NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) decided to scrub the launch attempt on Monday, May 6, for the Boeing Crew Flight Test to the International Space Station (ISS), citing an issue with a faulty oxygen relief valve on the ULA Atlas V rocket's Centaur second stage.

The fault was observed during pre-launch preparations, leading to the postponement of the launch.

Following the scrubbed launch attempt, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams left the Starliner spacecraft at Space Launch Complex-41 located at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

They returned to the astronaut crew quarters while teams worked to diagnose and address the technical issue.

NASA, Boeing, and ULA Sets New Target Date

NASA, Boeing, and ULA have set a new target date no earlier than Friday, May 10, pending successful resolution.

This delay will enable the teams to conduct thorough data analysis on the pressure regulation valve located on the liquid oxygen tank of the Atlas V rocket's Centaur upper stage.

According to NASA, identifying whether the valve requires replacement will be critical in preparing for the next launch opportunity.

During a press briefing held Monday night at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, mission managers provided detailed insights into the decision-making process behind scrubbing the launch.

The comprehensive analysis and troubleshooting efforts were deemed essential in ensuring the safety and success of the upcoming mission.

Who Are the Astronauts Behind the Boeing Crew Flight Test?

Butch Wilmore, designated as the mission commander, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the endeavor.

With a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy and two previous spaceflights, Wilmore is recognized for his astronautical duties and his role as a pastor, actively engaging in Bible studies and humanitarian missions across South and Central America.

Suni Williams, the pilot of the Starliner spacecraft, is the first woman to fly on a spacecraft's inaugural crewed flight.

As a retired U.S. Navy captain with extensive spaceflight experience, Williams offers invaluable insights and knowledge to the mission. Over the course of her career, she spent 322 days in space.

Beyond their contributions to the current mission, both astronauts possess diverse interests and educational backgrounds. Butch Wilmore, hailing from Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, holds multiple degrees in electrical engineering and aviation systems.

According to NASA's description of the crew, he is also a graduate of the United States Naval Test Pilot School and participates in community outreach and charitable initiatives.

Suni Williams holds degrees in physical science and engineering management. Williams is an ardent animal lover who plans to bring special tokens for her two rescue Labrador retrievers during her tenure aboard the ISS.