Boeing Starliner returns empty from ISS as NASA shifts to SpaceX

Boeing's Starliner capsule, which has been at the International Space Station (ISS) since early June, is set to return to Earth without the NASA astronauts it delivered. NASA has decided to utilize SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft for the return of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams, who will remain at the ISS for an additional six months before returning in February as part of the Crew-9 mission. This decision marks a significant shift in NASA's approach, as the agency had previously considered Starliner the primary option for crew return. The Starliner crew flight test, intended to be the final milestone in the spacecraft's development, encountered issues with its propulsion system, particularly with multiple thruster failures during docking. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the importance of safety in making this decision, stating that the agency is committed to understanding the root causes of the problems and ensuring design improvements for future missions. Despite the setbacks, NASA officials have expressed continued support for Boeing, with Nelson affirming confidence in Starliner's future capabilities. Boeing is focused on executing the mission as directed by NASA and preparing for a safe uncrewed return of the capsule. Meanwhile, SpaceX is adjusting its Crew-9 mission to accommodate Wilmore and Williams, reducing the number of astronauts on board from four to two. The ongoing challenges with Starliner's thrusters have raised concerns about the spacecraft's reliability, which was intended to be a key asset for NASA's plans to have two competing companies, Boeing and SpaceX, conducting missions to the ISS. The agency's decision reflects a commitment to crew safety and the need for thorough testing before resuming crewed flights with Starliner.