NASA’s Talks with Elon Musk’s SpaceX Could Restore Crew Return Capabilities

Ongoing discussions with Elon Musk’s SpaceX about the Dragon spacecraft could provide a new alternative for bringing astronauts back from the space station. NASA is exploring more possibilities with SpaceX

Boeing is facing a deepening crisis with its Starliner crew vehicle, which is currently stuck at the International Space Station (ISS).

Boeing and NASA are trying to figure out how to bring the astronauts back to Earth safely. What was supposed to be a short mission has stretched beyond a month due to problems with Starliner’s propulsion system, raising concerns about the spacecraft’s safety.

NASA said that if Starliner remains unsafe, the astronauts might return on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon in February 2025. NASA is discussing with SpaceX the possibility of reserving two seats on a Crew Dragon flight for the astronauts who flew on Starliner.

Starliner’s mission was initially planned to last about eight days but has been extended due to issues with its propulsion system. Boeing believes the spacecraft is safe, but if needed, they are ready to prepare Starliner for an uncrewed return.

Using a SpaceX spacecraft to bring the astronauts back would be a significant setback for Boeing, which has struggled to compete with SpaceX.

Problems with Starliner’s thrusters and helium leaks have led to extensive testing to resolve these issues. Recent test results have raised more concerns about the spacecraft’s ability to return safely.

Starliner has been docked at the ISS for 63 of its 90 allowable days and occupies the docking port that Crew Dragon will need for its upcoming mission.