NASA’s Plan B: SpaceX to the Rescue for Stranded Astronauts on the ISS

In a dramatic turn of events, NASA’s astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry E. Wilmore find themselves stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) due to a malfunction in their return vehicle, Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. Originally slated for a brief 8-day mission, the duo has now been in orbit for over 8 weeks as NASA and Boeing scramble to resolve the issue. The situation has necessitated a resupply mission by the Russian Progress 89 spacecraft, which recently delivered three tonnes of vital supplies to the beleaguered crew. This unexpected extension has tested the resilience and adaptability of the astronauts, who have integrated seamlessly with the existing Expedition 71 crew.

The crux of the problem lies in a software glitch that prevented the Starliner from reaching its intended orbit during a test flight in December 2019. Despite extensive efforts to rectify the issue, the spacecraft’s reliability remains in question. NASA has given Boeing until the end of the year to conduct a successful re-flight, but the clock is ticking. The urgency is compounded by the limited lifespan of the spacecraft’s batteries and the fact that the service module housing the faulty thrusters will be lost forever upon the spacecraft’s return to Earth. This precludes any possibility of performing a spacewalk to assess the damage, adding another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.

As NASA officials weigh their options, a contingency plan involving SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft has emerged as a viable alternative. The Crew Dragon has already proven its mettle by successfully completing a mission to the ISS with NASA astronauts on board. This backup plan would involve launching the Crew Dragon with just two crew members, leaving two seats empty to bring Williams and Wilmore home. The trust and cooperation between NASA and SpaceX are evident in this arrangement, highlighting the competitive yet collaborative nature of the commercial space industry.

The families of the stranded astronauts have been vocal about their concerns and hopes. Deanna Wilmore, Barry’s wife, has expressed a mix of faith and pragmatism, stating that they have to ‘roll with it and expect the unexpected.’ Meanwhile, Michael Williams, Sunita’s husband, has described space as her ‘happy place,’ underscoring her dedication and passion for space exploration. Both families remain optimistic, bolstered by regular communications with their loved ones via video calls and other means. The psychological well-being of the astronauts and their families is a critical factor that NASA is keenly aware of as they navigate this challenging scenario.

While the immediate focus is on ensuring the safe return of Williams and Wilmore, the broader implications for Boeing and its Starliner program are significant. The Starliner was intended to be the first commercial spacecraft to carry NASA astronauts to the ISS, a milestone that would mark a new era in American spaceflight. However, the repeated setbacks have cast a shadow over Boeing’s capabilities and raised questions about the safety and reliability of their spacecraft. NASA’s decision to have a contingency plan with SpaceX underscores the high stakes involved and the need for multiple reliable options in human space exploration.

The ISS continues to operate smoothly despite the extended stay of the astronauts. Williams and Wilmore have been actively contributing to scientific experiments and maintenance tasks, fully integrating with the seven-person US and Russian crew. Their presence has been invaluable, not just in terms of manpower but also in maintaining morale and a sense of normalcy. The ISS, traveling at a speed of five miles per second and orbiting Earth every 90 minutes, offers a unique vantage point for the astronauts, who regularly share stunning visuals with their families back on Earth.

NASA’s commitment to safety is unwavering, informed by past tragedies like the Challenger and Columbia disasters. The agency is determined to avoid repeating the mistakes of organizational silence and external pressures that contributed to those losses. The current predicament serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks of space travel and the importance of rigorous testing and validation. NASA’s transparent approach, including honest discussions with Boeing and regular updates to the public, reflects a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

The next few weeks are crucial as NASA and Boeing work towards a resolution. Engineers are meticulously analyzing data to pinpoint the cause of the Starliner’s malfunction and determine the best course of action. The upcoming media teleconference promises to shed more light on the situation, offering insights into the technical challenges and potential solutions. The stakes are high, not just for the stranded astronauts but for the future of commercial human spaceflight. A successful resolution could bolster confidence in Boeing’s capabilities, while a failure could shift the balance of power towards SpaceX.

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has already demonstrated its reliability, successfully transporting astronauts to and from the ISS. This track record has given NASA confidence in its ability to serve as a backup for the Starliner mission. The financial implications are also significant, as using SpaceX’s spacecraft would save NASA a considerable amount compared to developing an entirely new backup solution. This cost-effectiveness, coupled with proven reliability, makes SpaceX an attractive option for future missions, potentially reshaping the landscape of commercial space exploration.

The broader space community is watching closely as the situation unfolds. Alan Stern, a space scientist at the Southwest Research Institute, has suggested that SpaceX could potentially dominate the commercial human spaceflight market if Boeing fails to deliver. This would be a major setback for Boeing, which has been a longstanding partner of NASA with a successful track record in various space missions. However, the company is still expected to play a key role in NASA’s upcoming missions to the Moon and beyond, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of space exploration partnerships.

As the stranded astronauts continue their extended mission, they remain focused on their duties, embodying the resilience and dedication that define the astronaut corps. Their predicament has brought attention to the complexities and uncertainties of space travel, highlighting the need for robust systems and contingency plans. The outcome of this situation will have far-reaching implications, influencing not only the immediate future of the astronauts but also the strategic direction of NASA’s partnerships with commercial space companies.

The coming days will be pivotal as NASA, Boeing, and SpaceX collaborate to bring Williams and Wilmore home safely. The decision-making process is a testament to the rigorous standards and collaborative spirit that drive human space exploration. As the world watches, the resolution of this crisis will serve as a benchmark for future missions, reinforcing the importance of safety, innovation, and partnership in the quest to explore the final frontier.