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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are still stranded in space due to issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft.
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Engineers have identified potential causes for the helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, including heat buildup and Teflon seal issues.
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Further tests are being conducted to address the problems, but a return date has not been set, with the Starliner’s 90-day space limit approaching.
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been in space for over 50 days, exceeding their planned week-long mission. The delay is due to issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions. Despite recent tests, a return date has not been set, and engineers are working to understand and manage the stability of the leaks.
Engineers have made progress in identifying potential causes for the problems, including heat buildup inside the thrusters and Teflon seal issues. Tests have been conducted to replicate the issues, and additional tests are being done to confirm the findings. However, the unresolved helium leak issue remains a significant factor in the delay.
The Starliner spacecraft is designed to stay in space for a maximum of 90 days, and NASA and Boeing are working to plan for its undocking. A review is expected soon, possibly as early as late next week. The astronauts’ safety is the top priority, and a return date will be set once the issues are resolved.
