WASHINGTON – NASA and Boeing have rescheduled the launch of the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft for June 5, following a computer issue that caused the previous launch attempt to be scrubbed. The new launch date was set after United Launch Alliance fixed the problem, with a backup launch opportunity available on June 6.
The Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission is set to take off on June 5 at 10:52 a.m. Eastern time, marking the next available window for launch. The decision to proceed with the launch was given by mission managers on June 2. The postponement came after the previous launch attempt on June 1 was halted just 3 minutes and 50 seconds before liftoff due to the computer problem.
During the previous attempt, a critical card in one of the ground control computers, known as the launch sequencer, caused the delay. The card, responsible for controlling valves used for propellant replenishment on the Centaur upper stage, experienced a malfunction. In response, ULA opted to replace the faulty power unit and conduct thorough checks to ensure the hardware was functioning properly.
Weather conditions are expected to be favorable for the upcoming launch, with a 90% chance of acceptable conditions on June 5. The mission will see the Starliner spacecraft, carrying NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, travel to the International Space Station for about a week before returning to the southwestern United States.
In the event that the launch does not take place by June 6, NASA and ULA are prepared to stand down to address any issues with the Atlas 5 rocket and its support equipment. This includes replacing expiring batteries, a process that would take approximately 10 days to complete.
The success of the CFT mission is pivotal in NASA’s efforts to certify the Starliner spacecraft for operational missions to the ISS, expected to begin as early as 2025. The collaboration between NASA and Boeing highlights the continued advancement of space exploration technology and the importance of rigorous testing and preparation before embarking on missions of this magnitude.