In a week of setbacks for space exploration, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft faced repeated delays, with the latest launch attempt scrubbed just minutes before liftoff due to a computer issue. NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Suni Williams were scheduled to evaluate the Starliner’s systems during a week-long stay at the International Space Station. The spacecraft, which has faced numerous challenges including software issues and parachute problems, is now delayed until at least Wednesday, with potential launch windows on June 5 and June 6. This postponement follows a series of technical setbacks for Boeing, which has been under pressure to demonstrate the Starliner’s safety and reliability. The repeated delays have raised concerns about Boeing’s ability to deliver on its contract with NASA, especially as SpaceX’s Dragon capsule has been successfully transporting astronauts since 2020. In another blow to the private spaceflight industry, Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa canceled his much-anticipated trip around the Moon on SpaceX’s Starship due to ongoing development delays. Maezawa had planned the circumlunar journey as the ‘world’s first civilian mission,’ but the lack of a clear timeline for Starship’s readiness forced him to abandon the project. These developments come amidst China’s successful landing of the Chang’e-6 spacecraft on the Moon’s far side, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of spacefaring nations and companies.
Key points
- Boeing’s Starliner crewed launch has been delayed multiple times due to technical issues, with the next launch window set for no earlier than Wednesday.
- Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa cancels his SpaceX Starship trip around the Moon, originally planned for 2023, due to development delays.
- China’s Chang’e-6 mission continues its successful exploration of the Moon’s far side, contrasting with the challenges faced by Boeing and SpaceX.
