NASA has stated that there are currently no plans in place to utilize one of Elon Musk's spacecraft to rescue two astronauts stranded on the International Space Station. During a joint NASA-Boeing press briefing, it was mentioned that there have been no discussions about sending a SpaceX Dragon to retrieve the NASA astronauts who are currently aboard Boeing's Starliner spacecraft.
Although a SpaceX Dragon capsule is already docked at the ISS following its launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida in March, NASA official Steve Stich emphasized that there have been no talks about deploying another Dragon for the rescue mission. However, Stich did acknowledge that in a worsening scenario, the space agency could potentially turn to Elon Musk's rocket firm for assistance.
Boeing's Starliner, the company's inaugural commercial crewed spacecraft, has encountered challenges during its first voyage. Originally intended for a little over a week-long stay at the ISS, the Starliner has faced issues such as helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, resulting in the astronauts being stranded in orbit for over a month.
Despite the setbacks, NASA and Boeing have affirmed the safety of the Starliner and its capability for emergency returns. Ground teams are currently analyzing data from the spacecraft, with the astronauts potentially not returning home until mid-August at the latest.
The possibility of SpaceX coming to the rescue would be a blow to Boeing, which is in competition with Elon Musk's rocket company for astronaut transportation to the ISS. SpaceX has already completed a crewed mission to the ISS with its Dragon capsule in 2020, while Boeing has faced delays and technical challenges.
Boeing's recent troubles with the Starliner add to its existing concerns, including scrutiny over its safety culture following incidents such as a door plug blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight. The company also agreed to plead guilty this week to charges related to violations of deferred prosecution agreements after the 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019.
Both Boeing and NASA have not provided immediate comments on the situation.
