The Impact of Starliner on Boeing's Future with NASA

NASA and Boeing Both Say the Spacecraft Will Fly Again

Starliner Launch Courtesy Boeing YouTube Channel

(Analysis and Commentary by the Ex Terra Media Staff)

When Boeing's CST-100 Starliner launched to ISS on June 5th, probably no one thought that nearly three months later the spacecraft would remain docked to the orbiting outpost. But now, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams may feel a little like Charlie on the MTA.

“Well did he ever return?
No, he never returned
And his fate is still unlearned (what a pity)
He may ride forever
'Neath the streets of Boston
He's the man, who never returned."

- The Kingston Trio, “Charlie on the MTA”

Unlike the ill-fated Charlie in the 1959 hit by The Kingston Trio, Butch and Suni will return to Earth, but not on the same spacecraft on which they arrived at ISS. And their 8-day stay aboard the ISS will be extended to 8 months, with their return now expected at the end of Expedition 72 in February, 2025.

So, could the issues with Starliner lead to a change in the relationship between Boeing and NASA?