By: Irvin Ji

Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sumi Williams were scheduled to come home a couple of weeks ago, but will remain for a few extra weeks on the International Space Station due to five of the 28 thrusters malfunctioning. On the way to the ISS, Starliner’s computers compensated with the remaining thrusters.

The manager of NASA’s commercial crew, Steve Stich, has said that the vehicle is in good shape. The 5 thrusters are being analyzed, and the astronauts are going to return home on the Starliner soon. Stich stated that after an analysis on the thrusters’ behavior, they can return home.

After some maintenance, four of the five thrusters are now working properly, and the fifth will not be used on the way home.

Wayne Hale, a former flight director said about the astronaut’s extra time aboard the ISS, “I think they’re doing their due diligence.” He has also stated that taking their time and figuring out the problem is very important for their safety, and for the development of future spacecraft.

Mr. Nappi also said, “It would be irresponsible for us, if we have time and we want to do more, not to do it.”

Mr. Stich has stated that the repairs will most likely take a few more weeks for engineers to take a good look at the thrusters. They are currently unable to examine the part, as the spacecraft is now in orbit.

Mr. Stich has said that if the astronauts must come home due to an emergency, Starliner should be safe to come home. When a dead Russian satellite broke apart, they took refuge in Starliner in case of debris.

Stay tuned, and we will update you on the situation of the Starliner soon!