“Starliner Crewed Test Flight Delayed Due to Rocket Valve Issue”

Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner crewed test flight faced a setback on May 6 as controllers scrubbed the launch due to a valve problem with the Atlas 5 rocket. The issue stemmed from an oxygen relief valve on the rocket’s Centaur upper stage, which exhibited vibrations at a frequency of approximately 40 hertz, audible enough for teams at the launch pad to hear. While the valve was successfully closed, complying with flight rules was paramount, necessitating the launch scrub.

ULA CEO Tory Bruno explained that if the vibrations indicated full motions of the valve, nearing its rated life of 200,000 cycles, replacement would be required, potentially pushing the launch to the following week. However, engineers were analyzing data to determine if the buzzing was less severe, allowing for a potential launch attempt on May 7. NASA announced a new launch projection of no earlier than May 10, providing additional time for data analysis.

Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, slated for the Starliner mission, remained prepared for any delays. The Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission represents the final test before NASA certifies the Starliner for International Space Station crew rotations. Despite the setback, both astronauts expressed readiness, echoing advice from veteran astronaut Bob Behnken, emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure amidst launch delays.

The Starliner spacecraft, following launch, aims to dock with the ISS before returning to White Sands, New Mexico. While delays are common in space exploration, NASA and its partners remain committed to ensuring the safety and success of crewed missions.