Stuck in Space

Boeing’s Starliner’s return to Earth has already been delayed three times due to leaks and other problems, and the spacecraft remains docked at the International Space Station indefinitely, according to NASA.

The capsule, carrying astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, launched on June 5 and was supposed to return on June 14 following a short visit to the ISS. NASA says the earliest possible return is now an unspecified date in July.

The Starliner spacecraft was given the OK to launch despite officials recognizing a leak, which they believed was too small to pose a threat. REUTERS

NASA officials permitted Boeing to launch despite a small helium leak after determining it wasn’t dangerous. However, the Starliner developed four additional leaks in orbit, and five thrusters failed.

Boeing reports that four thrusters are now fixed, but they’re still investigating the cause of the issues.