We're back for the next update of Boeing's Starliner's Crew Flight Test (CFT) and the subsequent delays in the flight readiness review meeting. Coupled with reported internal NASA concerns related to the Starliner's Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters - it's clear there isn't 100% confidence & more options needs to be considered. That means engineering is involved!

So let's dive into the world of an Engineer: Using a nuanced approach to understanding all of the physics involved that ultimately guides your decision-making for managing risk in bringing these adventurous human beings home. Human Spaceflight is as real as it gets! 

On this episode we put you in the Engineer's seat as we consider multiple viewpoints and the importance of gathering accurate data to inform your decision-making (aka being a good engineer). We also discuss the difference between a healthy & toxic STEM environment as well as how dissenting opinions can be voiced and addressed in combination with rigorous testing and data analysis.

Topics:

nasa, spacecraft, thruster, engineer, risk, data, boeing, testing, thrust, space, engineering, crew, astronauts, seal, problem

Sources:

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/08/yes-nasa-really-could-bring-starliners-astronauts-back-on-crew-dragon/

https://apnews.com/article/astronauts-landing-space-station-frank-rubio-7826312581aa71a969781fbbb2dd9435

https://starlinerupdates.com/

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/07/nasa-nears-decision-on-what-to-do-with-boeings-troubled-starliner-spacecraft/

https://arstechnica.com/science/2023/01/russia-will-abandon-soyuz-on-orbit-fly-up-a-new-one-to-bring-crew-home/

https://www.space.com/spacex-dragon-changes-astronaut-seats-boeing-starliner

Timestamps:

00:00 Boeing Starliner issues and NASA's response.
05:00 Eric Berger & ARS Technica's Breakdown of Starliner's return and Crew options
09:40 NASA's backup plan: Bring astronauts home in Crew Dragon spacecraft. 
15:35 Spacecraft thruster performance and survivorship bias @TheJordanNoone
20:23 Engineering challenges and Space Mission development
24:47 Challenges of engineering, particularly in space industry.
25:42 NASA's Boeing Starliner testing and risk assessment.

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Here's to building a fantastic future - and continued progress in Space (and humanity)! Spread Love, Spread Science

Alex G. Orphanos

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