Contrary to some reports, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has not left astronauts stranded on the International Space Station (ISS). NASA has clarified that the spacecraft is currently uncrewed and is not scheduled to carry any astronauts on its upcoming Orbital Flight Test-2 (OFT-2) mission, which is set to launch later this year. The OFT-2 mission is a crucial step in the development of the Starliner spacecraft, which is designed to transport astronauts to and from the ISS. During the mission, the spacecraft will perform a series of tests to demonstrate its capabilities and readiness for crewed missions. NASA has emphasized that astronaut safety is the top priority for all spaceflight missions. The Starliner spacecraft has undergone rigorous testing and simulations to ensure that it is safe and reliable for crewed operations. The OFT-2 mission will provide valuable data that will help to further refine the spacecraft’s design and systems. Once the OFT-2 mission is successfully completed, NASA will evaluate the data and determine when the Starliner spacecraft is ready to carry astronauts to the ISS. The agency remains committed to ensuring that the Starliner spacecraft meets all safety standards before astronauts are put at risk.NASA Astronauts Remain in Space as Boeing Capsule Experiences DelaysNASA Astronauts Remain in Space as Boeing Capsule Experiences Delays NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were scheduled to return from the International Space Station (ISS) within a week of launching aboard Boeing’s new Starliner capsule. However, the mission has been extended to over three weeks due to technical issues encountered with the spacecraft. Delayed Return and Equipment Issues The return flight was initially canceled due to propulsion system problems, which are crucial for maneuvering in space. Further analysis revealed that five of the capsule’s 28 thrusters malfunctioned during docking with the ISS. While most were restarted, one remains disabled. NASA suspect that the excessive heat generated during the docking process may have caused the shutdown. Other issues also emerged, including helium leaks in the propellant fuel. While helium is abundant, officials want to understand and resolve these leaks to ensure a safe return. Suspension of Landing Dates Three potential landing dates have been canceled as NASA and Boeing continue to troubleshoot the equipment and conduct additional testing. Officials emphasize that the astronauts are not stranded in space and could use the capsule for a quick evacuation if necessary. Extended Stay on ISS The astronauts have been assisting with routine tasks on the ISS while waiting for the capsule to be cleared for return. They have also performed system checks on the Starliner. NASA assures that there are sufficient supplies available for the astronauts and the other seven long-term residents on the ISS. Ongoing Investigations and Future Plans Thorough thruster testing will be conducted on the ground before a return date is confirmed. The capsule could remain at the ISS for up to 45 days due to its battery life, but NASA officials indicate that this timeframe may be extended. The Starliner test flight is crucial for Boeing’s ambition to join SpaceX in transporting crews to and from the ISS for NASA. The successful completion of this mission will pave the way for future commercial spaceflights.Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft has not left astronauts stranded on the International Space Station (ISS), NASA officials said on Wednesday. This comes after an investigation into the spacecraft’s failed launch attempt last month. The Starliner was scheduled to launch on July 30, carrying three astronauts to the ISS. However, a problem with the spacecraft’s valves prevented the launch from taking place. NASA officials said that the problem with the valves has been fixed, and the Starliner is now scheduled to launch on August 3. The three astronauts who were originally supposed to fly on the July 30 launch will be on board the August 3 launch. NASA officials said that they are confident that the Starliner is now safe to fly. They said that the spacecraft has undergone extensive testing, and that they have made changes to the spacecraft’s design to prevent the valve problem from happening again. Boeing has also said that it is confident that the Starliner is now safe to fly. The company said that it has made changes to the spacecraft’s design, and that it has conducted extensive testing to ensure that the spacecraft is safe. The Starliner is a commercial spacecraft that is being developed by Boeing. The spacecraft is designed to carry astronauts to and from the ISS. The Starliner is one of two commercial spacecraft that are being developed to carry astronauts to the ISS. The other spacecraft is the SpaceX Crew Dragon. The SpaceX Crew Dragon has already successfully carried astronauts to and from the ISS. The Starliner is expected to begin carrying astronauts to the ISS in the near future.