1. Sunita Williams prepared for her third spaceflight, but NASA and Boeing cancelled the launch.
2. The Crew Flight Test, Starliner’s inaugural human spaceflight, was stopped due to an oxygen valve issue.
3. A faulty oxygen relief valve on the Atlas V rocket’s second stage led to the launch scrubbing.
Washington, D.C., Mat 07: Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams geared up for her third spaceflight, but just hours before lift-off, NASA and Boeing scrubbed the launch.
Cause of Scrubbing
The Starliner’s maiden human spaceflight, known as the Crew Flight Test, was halted due to a faulty oxygen relief valve on the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket’s second stage. Minutes later, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams exited the Starliner spacecraft at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
Evaluation Process
NASA stated that the launch was scrubbed as teams evaluated an oxygen relief valve on the Centaur Stage of the Atlas V rocket. United Launch Alliance (ULA) reported the decision was made due to an observation of a liquid oxygen self-regulating solenoid relief valve on the Centaur upper stage. The team required additional time to complete a thorough assessment.
Also Read: Rain and Thunderstorms Cause Extensive Damage to Over 480 Houses in Meghalaya
Next Launch Attempt
NASA announced a new launch date for Boeing Starliner, with Sunita Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, scheduled for May 10.
Technical Resolution
The delay allows teams to analyze data on a pressure regulation valve on the liquid oxygen tank of the Atlas V rocket’s Centaur upper stage. Depending on the outcome, a valve replacement may be necessary.
Certification Endeavor
The United States aims to certify a second spacecraft with orbital capabilities for crewed spaceflight.
While SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has taken the lead in the commercial space race, the Starliner spacecraft, named Calypso, offers autonomous or manual piloting capabilities. Its expected rendezvous and docking with the International Space Station is set for Wednesday.
