NASA Bails Out Boeing's Troubled Starliner Program
NASA is providing additional support and funding to Boeing's troubled astronaut capsule program in an effort to get it back on track.
The Starliner capsule has faced numerous issues, including a botched mission in 2024 that left two test pilots stuck at the International Space Station for nearly a year. NASA reclassified the incident as a 'Type A mishap,' its most severe ranking.
Astronauts will not strap in until 2028 due to the need for further safety redesigns, which are expected to take months or even years to complete. Manager Dana Weigel emphasized that everyone must be confident that all problems have been resolved before putting astronauts back on board.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced that Boeing should be ready to launch a new and improved Starliner by December 2024, but this time with cargo only. The space agency has committed $359 million more to the program for upgrades and certifications, including new valves and seals.