NASA schedules an uncrewed Starliner test before astronauts return
NASA’s September 28 plan puts an uncrewed Starliner-1 engineering flight ahead of another mission carrying astronauts. The flight would test changes to the propulsion system in orbit after control problems on the 2024 crewed test. December 2026 or January 2027 is a conditional window for the uncrewed mission; the current target for Starliner-2 with a crew is 2028.
Science··Morning
An uncrewed flight comes first
NASA and Boeing set out a new sequence for Starliner on September 28: an uncrewed engineering mission, Starliner-1, will precede any return to flying astronauts. NASA intends to use that flight to validate changes to the spacecraft, gather propulsion data in orbit and identify hazards that still need work. Associated Press independently reported the decision after NASA's briefing. It follows the capsule's first crewed test in 2024, when technical problems kept the two astronauts at the International Space Station far longer than planned.[1], [2]
Thruster problems shape the test
NASA's investigation of that test reported that service-module steering thrusters operated outside their engineering qualification and that the vehicle lost control during the flight. Ground tests by NASA and Boeing linked the thruster behavior to the thermal environment and features of the design. Boeing has made thermal changes to the service module; the uncrewed mission is intended to show how they perform in flight. The partners have also decided on another valve redesign after a displaced seal in a thruster valve adversely affected performance.[1]
Crew certification remains ahead
NASA gives December 2026 or January 2027 as a possible period for Starliner-1, conditional on the remaining engineering and vehicle preparations. Its current target for the later crewed Starliner-2 flight is 2028. AP's account also places the uncrewed validation before the return of astronauts. The proposed calendar is therefore a sequence of tests and decisions, rather than approval for regular crew transport. Before crew certification, Boeing also plans changes to crew-module thrusters and batteries, plus smaller parachute-system modifications. NASA intends to work with United Launch Alliance to certify the Vulcan rocket for crew transport after the last Atlas V flight. It also plans to exercise options for two additional station flights under its Boeing arrangement. Each is a planned step; the result of Starliner-1 must still be reviewed before the agency decides whether astronauts can fly again.[2], [1]
