NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams recently revealed in an interview with Ars Technica that the Boeing Starliner was dangerously close to failing its docking attempt at the International Space Station on June 5, 2024. As the Starliner approached the ISS, they lost the first thruster, followed by a second thruster, which would typically trigger an abortion of the docking attempt. NASA waived flight rules to allow the mission to continue despite the technical difficulties.
Wilmore further explained that they lost the fourth thruster as the Starliner was trying to dock, resulting in the loss of control over six degrees of freedom. He described the precarious situation they were in, with a lot of unsaid communication between him and Williams during the process. Despite the uncertain circumstances and potential loss of communication with Mission Control, both astronauts were determined to successfully dock with the space station.
As the docking process continued, Wilmore recalled feeling doubtful about the possibility of aborting the mission and returning to Earth. Threatened with the potential inability to return to Earth due to technical issues, he relied on his knowledge of orbital mechanics to navigate the situation. Eventually, NASA Mission Control took control of the spacecraft for its final approach to the space station after the failed thrusters were recovered.
The Starliner returned to Earth on September 7, 2024, without astronauts onboard to minimize risks. The astronauts completed an unexpected nine-month trip to the space station and returned to Earth on March 18 in a SpaceX Crew Dragon Capsule. Despite the challenges faced during the docking attempt, both Wilmore and Williams expressed relief and gratitude when the mission was successfully completed. The interview provided insight into the tense moments that occurred during the critical stage of the mission.
NASA astronauts Wilmore and Williams reflected on the experience of being in space for an extended period and the technical challenges they encountered during the mission. Wilmore discussed the implications of losing control of the spacecraft and the critical decisions made during the docking attempt. The astronauts credited the diligent efforts of Mission Control in supporting the mission and helping them navigate the obstacles faced during the docking process.
Overall, the interview shed light on the behind-the-scenes events that took place during the Boeing Starliner docking attempt at the International Space Station. Despite the technical difficulties and uncertainties, the astronauts remained focused and determined to complete the mission safely. The successful outcome of the mission highlighted the expertise and teamwork involved in space exploration and emphasized the importance of problem-solving skills in critical situations.
