In a significant step for space exploration, Boeing’s Starliner capsule, along with its two astronauts, successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, overcoming initial technical difficulties. This event marked a historic moment as it was the first time that two U.S.-built crewed spacecraft, Starliner and SpaceX’s Dragon, were simultaneously attached to the space station.
The initial docking attempt was postponed when NASA engineers identified an issue with the capsule’s reaction control thrusters, which are crucial for the precise docking process. However, a subsequent “hotfire” test reactivated at least four of the thrusters, enabling the Starliner to autonomously complete its docking at 12:34 PM CT.
As the spacecraft approached the ISS, engineers detected two new helium leaks. Helium, an inert gas, is used to power the thrusters of the capsule, which was launched atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral. Despite a pre-existing helium leak deemed acceptable before launch, these new leaks added an unexpected challenge to the mission.
NASA’s Response to the Helium Leaks
“Two of the affected helium valves have been closed and the spacecraft remains stable,” NASA stated on X, addressing the issue promptly to ensure the safety and stability of the mission. The leaks were first announced during a NASA broadcast. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were informed of the situation just before their scheduled rest period.
“Looks like we picked up a couple more helium leaks,” said mission control. Wilmore responded eagerly for details: “We are ready to … find out exactly what you mean by picked up another helium leak, so give it to us.”
Mission control’s reply indicated ongoing efforts to understand the issue: “Butch, I’m sorry. We’re still getting the story together.”
Despite the overnight concerns about the helium leaks, Boeing aerospace engineer Brandon Burroughs reassured, during a NASA broadcast, that the situation was under control: “We have some issues to watch overnight when in regards to the helium leaks that was just brought up, and we have a lot of smart people down here on the ground that are going to take a look at this stuff and keep an eye on it, but the vehicle is in a configuration right now where they’re safe to fly.”
This incident underscores the complexities and challenges of space travel, highlighting the collaborative effort between astronauts in orbit and engineers on the ground to ensure the success and safety of such ambitious missions.