Starliner Capsule Begins Return to Earth Without Crew, Who Will Remain in Space

Starliner Capsule Ends Uncrewed Mission, Returns to Earth

Boeing's Starliner capsule successfully completed its uncrewed mission to the International Space Station (ISS) and began its return to Earth on Wednesday, May 25, 2023.

The capsule undocked from the ISS at 2:06 p.m. EDT and began its solo journey back to Earth. The Starliner is expected to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California on Thursday, May 26, at 11:49 a.m. EDT.

Crew Members to Remain in Orbit

While the Starliner capsule is returning to Earth, the four crew members who launched aboard it will remain on the ISS for an extended stay.

The crew, consisting of NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgrén, Bob Hines, and Jessica Watkins, and ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, will now form part of the Expedition 68 crew.

The crew will conduct a variety of research experiments and maintenance tasks during their extended stay on the ISS.

Boeing's Second Attempt at Uncrewed Mission

This was Boeing's second attempt at an uncrewed mission to the ISS. The first attempt, in 2019, failed due to software issues.

Boeing has since made significant changes to the Starliner capsule and its software. The successful completion of this mission is a major milestone for Boeing and NASA.

Next Steps for Boeing and NASA

The successful return of the Starliner capsule will pave the way for future crewed missions to the ISS.

Boeing and NASA are planning to conduct a crewed test flight of the Starliner capsule later this year. If that mission is successful, the Starliner will begin regular crewed flights to the ISS.

Conclusion

The successful completion of the Starliner capsule's uncrewed mission to the ISS is a major milestone for Boeing and NASA. The mission paves the way for future crewed missions to the ISS and beyond.