Boeing’s First Manned Starliner Launch Delayed Until March 2023
Boeing’s highly anticipated first manned launch of the Starliner crew capsule has been postponed once again. The delay is due to ongoing issues with the spacecraft’s parachute system and a flammable adhesive used in protective electrical tape. The earliest launch date is now set for March 2023.
According to Mark Nappi, Boeing’s Starliner program manager, the readiness of the spacecraft is contingent on resolving the problems with the parachute system. He clarified that being ready with the spacecraft does not necessarily result in a launch date in early March. The actual launch will depend on various factors, including space station schedules and booster availability.
Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, revealed that March is typically when the Russians swap out their Soyuz spacecraft and crews. NASA will consider this and other cargo flights when determining the specific launch date. Assuming the Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission proceeds in March or April and no further issues arise, Boeing could receive certification to begin operational crew rotation missions by the end of 2024.
NASA plans to launch one Crew Dragon and one Starliner to the International Space Station (ISS) each year up until the ISS program’s end in 2030. The objective is to have two distinct space transportation systems in place. Stich emphasized the importance of reaching that goal and expressed confidence in Boeing’s commitment to the Starliner, despite the project’s setbacks and costs.
The Starliner has experienced a tumultuous journey, particularly for a company with Boeing’s history as a leader in human spaceflight. In 2014, NASA awarded Boeing and SpaceX contracts worth $6.8 billion to develop crewed vehicles for transporting astronauts to and from the space station. SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has already conducted ten successful piloted missions, whereas the Starliner has only completed two uncrewed flights.
The initial test flight of the Starliner in December 2019 encountered software issues that prevented it from docking with the ISS. Then, during a second uncrewed test flight, engineers discovered corroded propulsion system valves, causing further delays. The successful flight of the second test, which occurred in May 2022, gave NASA hopes for a piloted launch in 2022. However, subsequent analysis and reviews pushed the timeline to 2023.
The most recent delay arose from an analysis of previous parachute testing, which revealed deficiencies in the “soft links” connecting the parachute riser lines to the spacecraft. The links did not meet the required safety factor, prompting Boeing to replace them with an improved version. Additionally, the company will install an upgraded parachute system earlier than planned. A drop test is scheduled for November to verify the system’s performance.
Furthermore, concerns over a flammable adhesive used in protective electrical tape have prompted caution from Boeing. While test data is inconsistent, the company is taking steps to mitigate the risk, such as removing tape where possible and installing barriers in certain areas. Safety remains the highest priority throughout the decision-making process.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, Boeing remains committed to the Starliner program. The company has already procured hardware for the CFT mission and six additional flights. Furthermore, there is potential for more flights with other customers. Once the operational crew rotation missions begin, Boeing aims to alternate with SpaceX in sending crews to the ISS on an annual basis.
As Boeing works diligently to resolve the remaining issues and ensure the utmost safety, hopes are high for a successful Starliner launch in March 2023. The industry eagerly awaits the finalization of launch plans and the continuation of human spaceflight advancements.