Nasa's Analysis of Boeing's Starliner Craft: Challenges and Potential Implications

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft has faced significant scrutiny from both Nasa and the public, as it struggles to deliver astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS). Though the Crew Dragon, developed by SpaceX, has performed reliably, Starliner has encountered numerous technical issues and challenges.

Failed ISS Missions and Public Scrutiny

The primary issue with Starliner is its inability to demonstrate a safely and reliably delivering astronauts to and from the ISS, which has led to public doubts and skepticism. While NASA has not provided an exhaustive list of the root causes, it is widely acknowledged that the project has faced significant challenges.

Nasa's analysis highlights several concerning points. Firstly, there have been multiple instances of helium leaks and thruster failures, addressing the spacecraft's inability to maintain critical systems. These issues have raised significant concerns about the reliability and safety of the spacecraft.

The publically revealed problems include five helium leaks and five failed thrusters. While some of the thrusters are now functioning, the unknowns remain a significant source of concern. The spacecraft was rigorously designed, built, and tested, yet these issues have emerged, suggesting potential underlying flaws in the design or testing process.

The recurring issues include leaking seals on the propellant tanks, which continuously leak hydrogen. Additionally, the maneuvering thrusters on the service module have failed due to software problems. These recurring problems are particularly troubling as they occur late in the development process, indicating potential oversights in the spacecraft's design and testing.

Financial and Operational Impacts

The financial losses incurred by Boeing on the Starliner project are substantial, with reports suggesting losses of up to 1.5 billion dollars. These financial losses have raised questions about the project's long-term viability and the wisdom of continuing such a high-risk endeavor.

From an operational standpoint, the continuation of financial support through tax dollars and corporate funds has become a persistent issue. As long as this cash flow continues, regardless of the funding source, NASA and Congress appear content to maintain this project. The ability to shut down this "gravy train" of congressional pork lies solely with Congress, which has shown little willingness to intervene.

Concluding Thoughts

The unresolved issues with Starliner raise serious doubts about its future missions and the reliability of the spacecraft in general. The possibility of further issues on the Starliner's return to Earth is a concern that should not be overlooked. The public and stakeholders in NASA will be watching closely to see how these issues are resolved and whether the spacecraft can be made safe and reliable for future missions.

Ultimately, the success or failure of Starliner will have significant implications for NASA's outsourcing of crew transport to commercial partners. As the company and its partners continue to work through these challenges, it will be crucial to focus on thoroughly resolving each identified issue to ensure the safety and success of future space missions.