The North American space agency NASA released an investigation report on the Crew Flight Test (CFT) of the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft, developed by Boeing. The document classifies the flight as Type A mishap, the most serious accident category in the agency’s system. Anomalias in the propulsion system during the approach to Estação Espacial Internacional (ISS) led to significant delays and priority safety decisions. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams remained on the ISS for an extended period before returning via SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.
The launch took place on June 5, 2024. The mission expected a stay of around one to two weeks on the ISS. Problemas thruster technicians prevented compliance with the original schedule. The crew was unable to return on Starliner as initially planned. The spacecraft returned unmanned to Terra in September 2024. The astronauts returned in March 2025 on the SpaceX spacecraft.
Classification as a serious accident
NASA assigned the maximum accident rating due to the multiple failures identified. The report highlights technical and organizational issues that contributed to the problems. Medidas corrective measures include upgrades to propulsion hardware. Revisões in the monitoring culture and internal processes are also part of the recommendations.
Investigators analyzed flight data to map the anomalies. The agency emphasizes that safety must be proven by objective evidence before proceeding. Boeing actively participates in the necessary modifications.
Changes in planning for Starliner-1
The Starliner-1 mission, originally planned as an operational flight, will be redefined as a substantial test. The main objective becomes data collection to resolve the challenges exposed in the CFT. The contractual change between NASA and Boeing provides for an unmanned launch in November 2025.
Essa redefinição permite validação completa das correções implementadas. A agência não autorizará missões tripuladas até o cumprimento integral das ações corretivas. O foco permanece na garantia de confiabilidade para voos futuros com tripulação.
Details of anomalies in the propulsion system
During the approach to the ISS, the Starliner recorded several irregularities in the thrusters. Essas failures required extensive analysis and postponement of return. NASA’s Engenheiros and Boeing worked to understand the root causes of the problems.
The report highlights the need for improvements in design and test procedures. Atualizações in hardware aim to prevent similar recurrences. Monitoramento improved during flights integrates lessons learned.
Program context Commercial Crew
The Starliner integrates NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. The initiative seeks commercial options for transporting astronauts to the ISS. Boeing developed the spacecraft alongside SpaceX, which already operates regular missions with the Crew Dragon.
The CFT represented the first manned flight of Starliner. Previous Experiências have included unmanned tests in 2019 and 2022. OFT-2 achieved successful roundtrips to the ISS.
Next steps and focus on security
NASA maintains its position that no mission will proceed without full validation of the corrections. Equipes continues upgrades and testing for the modified hardware. The report serves as a basis for advances in the program.
The agency prioritizes objective data to prove safety. Boeing carries out the recommended changes in coordination with NASA. The process reinforces high standards for human spaceflight.
