There is a strong likelihood that NASA will bring back the crew of the inaugural crewed Starliner mission in a SpaceX Dragon capsule. Sources informed Ars Technica about this development. The Starliner has been orbiting in space since early June as a result of issues encountered during its launch.
An unnamed source from Ars Technica shared that there is a more than fifty percent chance that the astronauts will be returning to Earth in a Crew Dragon capsule rather than Boeing's Starliner. Another source indicated that the probability is even higher. Insiders revealed that NASA has engaged in "intensive discussions" with executives this week regarding the feasibility of conducting a manned return flight with the Starliner. Despite the discovery of thruster problems shortly after launch, there is still significant opposition within the agency. Ars Technica reported that NASA has not yet reached a decision.
When asked if there is a higher possibility of the Starliner crew returning in a Dragon capsule, a spokesperson for the space agency stated that "NASA has examined all available options for safely returning the astronauts." The spokesperson added, "No final decision has been made, and updates on the schedule will continue to be provided."
CNBC reported based on its own information that NASA recently contemplated the scenario of the Starliner departing without a crew and utilizing the Crew Dragon instead. A spokesperson from Boeing expressed confidence to the news outlet, stating, "We firmly believe that the Starliner can safely bring back its crew."
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