NASA Delays Astronaut Launch Amid Boeing Starliner Issues

NASA is postponing its next astronaut launch to address issues with Boeing's new crew capsule. SpaceX's four-person flight is delayed to September, allowing more time to analyze thruster and leak problems in Boeing's Starliner capsule. NASA and Boeing are evaluating the spacecraft's readiness, with decisions pending.

NASA is postponing its next astronaut launch to address issues with Boeing's new crew capsule, officials announced Tuesday. The launch, initially planned for this month, has been shifted to September 24 at the earliest.

This delay allows more time to investigate thruster and leak problems that surfaced in Boeing's Starliner capsule during its June liftoff, its first with a crew on board. NASA stated that they are evaluating the spacecraft's readiness, with further decisions to be revealed in a forthcoming news conference.

The delay also impacts the four astronauts who flew up with SpaceX in March, extending their mission. Additionally, Boeing is conducting thruster test firings both on the ground and in space to understand and fix the issues better. Despite these setbacks, the company remains confident in Starliner's ability to return safely with the crew.

(With inputs from agencies.)