NASA Reconsiders Boeing Starliner for More Low-Earth Orbit Missions

NASA is considering using Boeing's Starliner spacecraft for more missions to low-Earth orbit, despite technical issues during its test flight in September 2024. The potential new missions would be part of NASA's plans to maintain U.S. access to the region and future private space stations.

Originally selected for up to six missions, discussions between NASA and Boeing could mark a significant turnaround for Starliner, which has not flown since its test flight. During that mission, thruster failures and technical problems prompted NASA to decide against returning astronauts aboard the spacecraft.

A NASA report identified communication issues, management failures, and technical problems during the mission. The agency is reassessing its options for transporting astronauts as SpaceX begins winding down production of its Dragon spacecraft and shifts resources toward its Starship program.