The latest ground tests for the Starliner run by Boeing and NASA engineers from the surface have already completed their study, and it is now time to review the data before the fated return of the rocket. This said study is crucial to the Starliner's return to the surface from the International Space Station, bringing with it the astronauts that were part of the mission.
It is known that the Starliner's first crewed flight to the ISS saw different complications and problems, particularly with the helium leak and other issues.
Boeing, NASA Completes Starliner Ground Tests, Data Review Starting
Boeing/John Grant
According to the latest news release from Boeing, the company, alongside NASA, has completed the Starliner thruster ground tests at its White Sands Test Facility in Mexico, with the next phase to start. After the tests, the team would need to review the data, and this is a must before the fated return of the rocket.
Starliner's Reaction Control System (RCS) observed the thruster degradation of the rocket which was essential in understanding why these failed during its June flight. The team also simulated the new thruster's launch-to-docking firing sequences to simulate the Crew Flight Test's conditions.
These tests offered significant insights to the team which it will need to review, with Boeing and NASA regarding Starliner's return will commence in the coming weeks.
Boeing Starliner's Expected Return to Earth From ISS
During this review, Boeing and NASA would then proceed to thruster disassembly, also inspecting it before it goes to its next phase of finalizing Starliner's flight rationale.
NASA Commercial Crew's next move with Boeing would have the Starliner return to the planet, to detach from the ISS, all while carrying commander Butch Wilmore and astronaut Suni Williams.
Boeing Starliner and the Commercial Crew Program
The much-awaited Boeing Starliner's first test flight took place last June and it was a historic mission for the company and NASA, particularly as it is part of the Commercial Crew program. It saw two astronauts board the rocket aboard United Launch Alliance's Atlas V first-stage rocket, with this mission best known for facing significant delays all these years.
However, amidst the mission the rocket faced massive issues which first manifested three helium leaks, one of which was identified by the company beforehand. Additionally, the rocket's reaction control system thrusters also failed mid-flight, during its approach to the space station.
The hot-fire tests done by the crew onboard were able to bring back four out of five thrusters which enabled them to manually pilot the Starliner as it docked to the ISS.
It was initially revealed that the Starliner would only stay for a few days docked to the ISS, particularly as it was there only for the test flight, but this turned into a whole month already, and counting. Now, Boeing and NASA have wrapped up their ground control tests but would need more time to review the data, and when all has been said and done, Starliner will make its awaited return to the planet.
