-
Ex-NASA engineer Don Nelson warns Boeing Starliner could crash in populated areas during return journey.
-
Nelson cites concerns over propulsion system failures and inadequate safety measures.
-
NASA and Boeing face criticism for proceeding with uncrewed return despite safety risks.
A retired NASA engineer has raised alarm bells about the safety of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft as it prepares to return to Earth. Don Nelson warns that the spacecraft could lose control during its de-orbit and pose a risk to populated areas, including downtown Houston.
Nelson argues that the only safe option is to deorbit Starliner into the Pacific Ocean, using a “death dive” trajectory to avoid any risk of impact over land. He criticizes NASA’s safety panel for remaining silent on the issue, expressing concern that the current plan could endanger lives.
The Starliner mission has been plagued by technical issues, including propulsion system failures, which led NASA to abandon plans for a crewed return. Despite this, the spacecraft is still scheduled to land in White Sands, New Mexico, using parachutes. Nelson’s warnings highlight the ongoing concerns about Boeing’s ability to safely operate the Starliner.
