Boeing’s Starliner faces new helium leaks after successful launch

Boeing’s Starliner Atlas V rocket successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Wednesday, June 5, carrying two NASA astronauts. This followed two previously failed attempts. The capsule reached orbit about 12 minutes after liftoff. Now, NASA says the Starliner mission is facing new issues en route to the International Space Station (ISS). 

NASA reported two helium leaks were detected on the spacecraft, adding to a previously known leak. The new leaks were discovered after the spacecraft arrived in orbit. 

“Helium is used in spacecraft thruster systems to allow the thrusters to fire and is not combustible or toxic,” Boeing said.

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Mission Control informed astronauts Butch Willmore and Suni Williams to shut down two valves to stop the leakage. The astronauts were guided through the process during a NASA broadcast. 

“Teams have identified three helium leaks on the spacecraft,” NASA shared in a post. “One of these was previously discussed before flight along with a management plan. The other two are new since the spacecraft arrived on orbit. Two of the affected helium valves have been closed and the spacecraft remains stable.”

However, Boeing reports that the crew is safe and the spacecraft remains stable. They are expected to successfully dock at the International Space Station on Thursday, June 6.