Boeing’s Starliner Returns to Earth, But NASA Astronauts Face Extended Stay on ISS
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has safely returned to Earth, but its two astronauts remain on the International Space Station (ISS). The spacecraft, running autonomously, touched down in New Mexico’s desert after a six-hour trip.
NASA astronauts to spend eight months on the ISS
Originally, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were set to return on Starliner, but technical problems made the journey too risky, forcing them to extend their mission until February.
Launched in June, the Starliner mission has faced several technical issues, including thruster failures and helium leaks. NASA deemed it unsafe for the astronauts to return using Starliner, opting instead for a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission in February 2025. This delay extends what was meant to be an eight-day mission into an eight-month stay for the astronauts aboard the ISS.
Despite these setbacks, Starliner successfully completed its automated re-entry, slowing its descent with parachutes before landing at White Sands Space Harbor. NASA’s Steve Stich praised the landing, calling it a “bull’s-eye,” but acknowledged the disappointment that it didn’t go as initially planned. Boeing’s capsule will now undergo post-flight analysis at NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
Consistent technical issues bring the future of Starliner into question
The thruster failures and ongoing issues have cast doubt on Starliner’s future. Boeing has faced significant financial losses, with cost overruns surpassing $1.6 billion. The Starliner program has faced delays since its first failed test in 2019, and even a subsequent re-do mission in 2022 encountered similar malfunctions.
NASA, however, remains committed to Boeing’s involvement, stressing the importance of having two U.S. companies capable of transporting astronauts. SpaceX has already completed nine crewed missions for NASA, while Starliner’s struggles raise concerns about whether Boeing can meet NASA’s goals before the ISS is decommissioned in 2030.
As for Wilmore and Williams, they’re in good spirits, continuing scientific research alongside their ISS crewmates. NASA has provided them with additional supplies, including personalised gear to make their extended stay more comfortable. The duo is set to return on a SpaceX capsule next year, marking the end of their unexpectedly long mission.
Boeing, meanwhile, is working to address Starliner’s flaws and ensure the spacecraft’s future role in NASA missions.
