Boeing’s Space Capsule Springs More Helium Leaks On Its First Test Flight With Astronauts

CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA – Boeing’s space capsule developed more leaks during its first test flight with humans as it approached the International Space Station on Thursday.

When the Starliner capsule launched into orbit on Wednesday, it already had a minor helium leak. Managers at Boeing and NASA were confident that they could handle the propulsion system despite the malfunction and that further leaks were improbable. But barely hours into the journey, two more breaches appeared. There was no immediate news on the scale of the fresh leaks.

Boeing | Times Image

Boeing’s Space Capsule Springs More Helium Leaks On Its First Test Flight With Astronauts

According to Boeing spokesman Jim May, the breaches pose no risk to NASA test pilots Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, as well as the mission.

Mission managers pushed for a midday docking with the space station while monitoring the situation.

Boeing | The Daily Beast Image

Boeing’s Space Capsule Springs More Helium Leaks On Its First Test Flight With Astronauts

According to May, the capsule has enough helium stores to compensate for the loss. He explained that once the capsule docks at the space station, the propulsion system would be turned off because the thrusters would no longer be required.

Helium is used to pressurize the fuel lines for the Starliner’s thrusters, which are required for maneuvering. Before liftoff, engineers designed a strategy to address any new leaks in the system. The first leak is said to have been caused by a failed rubber seal about the size of a shirt button.

Boeing | AP News Image

Boeing’s Space Capsule Springs More Helium Leaks On Its First Test Flight With Astronauts

After the space shuttles were retired, NASA hired Boeing and SpaceX to transport humans to and from the space station. SpaceX’s taxi service launched in 2020. Boeing was planned to start in about the same period, but it was held up for years due to safety concerns and other issues.

Boeing intends to retain Starliner aboard the space station for at least eight days before directing it to a landing in the western United States.

SOURCE – (AP)