Podcast
Questions and Answers
What date was it announced that Boeing's Starliner spacecraft would return uncrewed to Earth?
What date was it announced that Boeing's Starliner spacecraft would return uncrewed to Earth?
For what duration was Wilmore and Williams' initial mission on Starliner planned?
For what duration was Wilmore and Williams' initial mission on Starliner planned?
What were the issues experienced by the Starliner as it approached the ISS?
What were the issues experienced by the Starliner as it approached the ISS?
Which spacecraft will be used to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth?
Which spacecraft will be used to return Wilmore and Williams to Earth?
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How many astronauts will be part of the Crew-9 mission when Wilmore and Williams return?
How many astronauts will be part of the Crew-9 mission when Wilmore and Williams return?
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What new responsibilities will Wilmore and Williams undertake while at the ISS?
What new responsibilities will Wilmore and Williams undertake while at the ISS?
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When was the SpaceX Crew-9 mission originally scheduled to launch?
When was the SpaceX Crew-9 mission originally scheduled to launch?
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How did Williams describe the experience of being in space?
How did Williams describe the experience of being in space?
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Flashcards
What is the Starliner spacecraft?
What is the Starliner spacecraft?
The Starliner spacecraft is a reusable spacecraft designed to transport up to seven astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS).
What issues did the Starliner encounter?
What issues did the Starliner encounter?
The Starliner spacecraft experienced helium leaks and thruster failures during its mission to the ISS.
Why was the Starliner's return flight canceled?
Why was the Starliner's return flight canceled?
NASA decided to return the astronauts aboard the Starliner to Earth using the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft instead, due to safety concerns.
Why was the Crew-9 mission delayed?
Why was the Crew-9 mission delayed?
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What happened to the astronauts after the mission extension?
What happened to the astronauts after the mission extension?
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What was the astronauts' initial mission length?
What was the astronauts' initial mission length?
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What are the astronauts doing on the ISS?
What are the astronauts doing on the ISS?
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What is the Starliner's current status?
What is the Starliner's current status?
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Study Notes
Starliner Return and Crew 9 Mission Delays
- Starliner spacecraft will return to Earth uncrewed in early September 2024.
- Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams will remain at the International Space Station (ISS) until February 2025.
- NASA determined returning them on Starliner was too risky due to lingering safety concerns, including helium leaks and thruster failures during the approach to the ISS.
- The astronauts launched on June 5, 2024, for an eight-day mission.
- The Starliner is designed for up to seven astronauts.
- Initial problems (helium leaks and thruster failures) occurred during the approach to the ISS.
- Astronauts were able to dock safely on June 6, 2024.
- NASA and Boeing initially hoped to resolve issues and return the astronauts on the same spacecraft.
- NASA will bring the astronauts back on the SpaceX Dragon.
- The SpaceX Crew-9 mission was initially scheduled for August 18, 2024 but had been postponed due to the Starliner's occupancy of the docking space.
Crew 9 Mission Modifications
- Crew-9 will now only consist of two astronauts instead of four.
- The delay allows for the return of Wilmore and Williams.
- The astronauts are adjusting to the extended stay on the ISS transitioning to full-time crew roles.
- They'll conduct spacewalks, maintain the ISS, and participate in scientific experiments.
- Astronauts are content with their extended stay on the ISS.
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Description
Explore the challenges and updates regarding the Starliner spacecraft's return to Earth and the Crew 9 mission delays. Discover the safety concerns that led to postponements and the decision to change the return vehicle for astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams. Stay informed about the future of these missions and the collaboration between NASA and Boeing.
