Software and Parachute Problems Make the Boeing Starliner Unsafe for Humans

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NASA and Boeing reviewed the Starliner and determined that are still emerging issues that need a path to closure prior to a decision to fuel the spacecraft in June.

The chair of a NASA safety panel urged the agency not to rush into a crewed test flight of Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner vehicle, calling for an independent “deep look” at technical issues with the spacecraft.

This is a huge deal for a bureaucrat to step up and urge more delays and testing. This is an indication that the Starliner is nowhere near the level of safety needed to trust it for human transport.

[Starliner] should not be flown until safety risks can either be mitigated or accepted, eyes wide open, with an appropriately compelling technical rationale.

Software and Parachute Problems

Parachute certification remains a “pacing item” for the launch, Sanders said, but also brought up several other issues, some of which she said were only recently revealed through analysis of data products as part of the certification process. She mentioned specific open risks of ongoing integrated software testing as well as battery sidewall rupture concerns, a risk accepted “for the interim only.”

18 thoughts on “Software and Parachute Problems Make the Boeing Starliner Unsafe for Humans”

  1. Maybe you haven’t noticed Space X’s success with crewed and uncrewed missions. Even under the meticulous watch of NASA engineers they succeed and advance never before seen in the industry. Their safety protocols are just fine.

  2. We need to start a Federal Galaxy Inspection Certification to go over all designs, hiring 3rd party Scientist. All fuel systems, SLS rocket system inspection of each stage, before being human safe, it will take patience which will save live.

    • Because safe for the 60s is not safe for modern day. It might have worked but they cut a lot of safety corners.

      In addition it would cost them tens of billions more just to build one of those rockets. Assuming they still had the plans, which I’m sure they don’t.

  4. Pull the plans for Apollo, looks almost identical to the command module and service module. They only had one hiccup in all their launched flights, #13, go figure. Anyways, their technology is tried, proven, and most importantly, uncomplicated.

  5. I would be very interested in an independent engineering review from a SpaceX engineer. Find somebody recently retired and ask for a report in 45 days. $2000/day plus expenses and a secretary would be about right.

    • The last people that are qualified to assess system safety are SpaceX. They have a long history of speeding past safety protocols.

      • I understand that you strongly disagree with the comment regarding SpaceX’s approach to system safety. It’s important to consider multiple perspectives when discussing such matters. While it’s true that SpaceX has been known to push the boundaries of innovation and occasionally encountered setbacks, it is also crucial to recognize the immense dedication they have towards ensuring the safety of their crew members.

        SpaceX, under the leadership of Elon Musk, has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to astronaut safety throughout their manned missions. They have worked closely with NASA and other space agencies to adhere to rigorous safety protocols and standards. Each manned mission to the International Space Station undergoes extensive testing, evaluation, and verification processes to mitigate potential risks.

        Elon Musk himself has emphasized the importance of safety, often stating that it is the top priority for SpaceX. He has acknowledged the inherent risks involved in space exploration and has taken numerous measures to minimize those risks. This includes investing significant resources into research and development, conducting thorough simulations, and implementing redundant safety measures in their spacecraft designs.

        The space industry as a whole has seen its fair share of accidents and challenges, even among established organizations. SpaceX’s willingness to embrace innovative approaches may introduce some level of risk, but it also opens up new possibilities for space exploration and technology advancement.

        SpaceX has learned from their experiences and continuously improved their safety practices. They have implemented corrective measures and enhanced their procedures based on lessons learned from past missions. The pursuit of excellence in safety is an ongoing process for any organization involved in cutting-edge technology, and SpaceX is no exception.

        It is essential to consider the comprehensive efforts made by SpaceX and Elon Musk to prioritize astronaut safety. Their collaboration with NASA and dedication to continuous improvement demonstrates a commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration while ensuring the well-being of those involved.

  7. Buying your way in, makes you 100% responsible for pay for your way out! “Kill someone, anyone someone or a few key individuals need to cutoff ones most important own arm, publicly” Then there money is no longer important, and a human life will be.

  8. “Known for identifying cutting edge technologies”. Cutting edge technologies? We’ve been using parachutes for returning capsules for sixty years now.

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