Helium Leaks Detected on Boeing Starliner During Approach to ISS

Helium Leaks Detected on, Boeing Starliner , During Approach to ISS.

Reuters reports that Boeing's new Starliner capsule has run into new problems on its approach to dock with the International Space Station.

Helium leaks were detected on the CST-100 Starliner, which is carrying the spacecraft's inaugural two-member NASA crew.

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With veteran astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Sunita "Suni" Williams aboard, the CST-100 Starliner successfully launched from Florida on June 5.

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On its way to the ISS, helium leaks were detected on the Boeing spacecraft's propulsion system, which rendered a number of its 28 thrusters unusable.

According to NASA and Boeing, the crew remains safe, and the CST-100's backup thrusters can compensate for the loss.

On June 6, NASA mission managers gave Boeing the green light to proceed with docking procedures while the agency continues to monitor the leak rate.

NASA's plan will see Wilmore and Williams remain aboard the ISS for eight days before departing on a return flight through Earth's atmosphere.

The mission will then end with a first-ever parachute and airbag-assisted landing for a crewed mission in the U.S. Desert Southwest.

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The successful June 5 Starliner launch came following years of technical problems, leading to a series of setbacks and delays.

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Reuters reports that Boeing's Starliner is currently several years behind schedule and has already exceeded its budget by over $1.5 billion.

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Reuters reports that Boeing's Starliner is currently several years behind schedule and has already exceeded its budget by over $1.5 billion.