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NASA said that Boeing's "Starliner" is expected to return to Earth without a crew in early September this year. The empty return will allow it to continue to collect relevant test data during the return process, while not letting astronauts "take risks beyond the unnecessary range." NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that the decision to let Boeing's space capsule return to Earth empty "is based on a commitment to safety."

Boeing did not attend NASA's press conference on the 24th, but issued a statement:"Boeing continues to focus on the safety of the crew and spacecraft.The company said it was preparing for the spacecraft's "safe and successful return."

On June 5 this year, American astronauts Wilmore and Williams became the first crew members to board Boeing's Starliner to the International Space Station. They were originally scheduled to carry out an eight-day test flight mission, but due to problems such as thruster failure and helium leakage, the return time was repeatedly postponed. So far, they have been stranded in the space station for 79 days.

NASA's decision to let Boeing's biggest competitor in the space business send astronauts back to Earth is one of the most significant decisions NASA has made in years, Reuters said. The Associated Press reported on the 24th that NASA's decision is a blow to Boeing, exacerbating the safety issues that have plagued the company. Boeing had hoped that the first manned flight of the "Starliner" would revive its troubled spacecraft program, which has been delayed for years and its costs have continued to swell.

Source: Global Times