NASA orders more tests on Starliner, but says crew isn’t stranded in space

NASA has ordered additional tests on the Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft, which experienced a software issue during its maiden voyage last week. The spacecraft, named Calypso, was intended to carry astronauts Butch Cassidy and Suni Williams to the International Space Station (ISS) but was forced to abort the mission due to the glitch.

Despite the setback, NASA officials have assured that the astronauts are not stranded in space. “I want to make it very clear that Butch and Suni are not stranded in space,” said NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine during a press conference. “They are safe and sound on board the ISS, and we are working diligently to resolve the issue with the Starliner.”

The software issue, which occurred just minutes after launch, prevented the spacecraft from reaching its intended orbit. The spacecraft was forced to enter a lower orbit than planned, which made it impossible for it to reach the ISS.

NASA officials have stated that they are taking a cautious approach to resolve the issue, and have ordered additional tests on the Starliner to ensure its safety and reliability before attempting another launch. “We understand the disappointment of not being able to complete the mission as planned, but we must prioritize safety above all else,” said Bridenstine.

The Starliner spacecraft is a key component of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which aims to provide safe and reliable transportation to and from low-Earth orbit. The program has been in development for several years, with NASA partnering with private companies like Boeing and SpaceX to develop new spacecraft capable of carrying astronauts to the ISS.

The aborted mission was a significant setback for NASA and Boeing, as it was meant to be the first manned flight of the Starliner spacecraft. The mission was intended to test the capabilities of the spacecraft and its crew systems before beginning regular flights to the ISS.

Despite the setback, NASA officials have expressed confidence in the Starliner spacecraft and its potential to provide safe and reliable transportation to and from low-Earth orbit. “We are committed to continuing our work with Boeing to ensure the safety and reliability of the Starliner,” said Bridenstine. “We will not rush into anything, and we will take the time necessary to get it right.”

The delay in the Starliner’s maiden voyage is unlikely to have a significant impact on NASA’s plans for future manned missions to the ISS. The agency has stated that it will continue to work with Boeing to resolve the issue and ensure the safety of the astronauts.

In conclusion, while the software issue that forced the Starliner spacecraft to abort its maiden voyage was a significant setback for NASA and Boeing, the agency is taking a cautious approach to resolve the issue and ensure the safety of the astronauts. The incident highlights the complexity and challenges of space travel, but also underscores NASA’s commitment to safety and its determination to continue pushing the boundaries of human exploration.