Boeing's Starliner Overcomes Setbacks, Successfully Returns Uncrewed from ISS

The Boeing CST-100 Starliner spacecraft landed in New Mexico in the early hours of September 7, Eastern Time, marking the end of its uncrewed return journey to Earth.

Boeing's Starliner detached from the International Space Station (ISS) at 6:04 PM Eastern Time on September 6, initiating its solo trip back to Earth. This event followed the Starliner's first crewed test flight on June 5, which saw two NASA astronauts transported to the ISS.

Initially, the spacecraft was scheduled to leave the ISS and return to Earth on June 14. However, technical issues—such as a helium leak and multiple thruster failures—caused several delays. Ultimately, NASA determined that returning with crew aboard posed too many risks. Hence, the decision was made for the spacecraft to return uncrewed, while the astronauts would stay on the ISS for an additional five to six months.

On June 5, Starliner transported astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to the ISS, successfully docking a day later. Yet, the mission soon encountered setbacks, including helium leaks and the failure of five out of twenty-eight reaction control system thrusters.

These complications led to the extension of the mission, known as the Crew Flight Test (CFT), originally planned to last around ten days. The delays allowed NASA and Boeing to investigate the propulsion issues and determine the odds of recurrence during the spacecraft’s return journey.

Following its undocking from the ISS, Starliner's planned trajectory involved deorbiting and reentry, with its final descent aided by parachutes. The spacecraft landed at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico at approximately 12:03 AM Eastern Time on September 7.

This mission is a critical milestone for Boeing as the company strives to certify the Starliner for regular crewed missions. Despite the setbacks, the successful return of the uncrewed spacecraft represents a significant achievement and a promising step forward.