Space Agency Weighs Options Amid Starliner Issues

  • NASA to provide an update on whether Boeing’s Starliner will be used to bring astronauts back from ISS
  • Boeing and NASA dealing with helium leaks and thruster issues in Starliner
  • Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have been at ISS for over 70 days
  • NASA and Boeing analyzing data ahead of decision this week
  • SpaceX Crew Dragon as potential alternative to bring astronauts back to Earth
  • Starliner’s first crewed mission faces delays, launch in June
  • Next SpaceX Crew Dragon flight expected in September 2023
  • Boeing shares up 0.9% on Friday morning

NASA will update on whether Boeing’s Starliner or SpaceX Crew Dragon will bring astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams back from the International Space Station. Boeing Co.’s Starliner has faced helium leaks and thruster issues, leading to an extended stay at ISS. NASA and Boeing are analyzing data for a decision this week. If Starliner is not chosen, the astronauts may return on SpaceX Crew Dragon.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the current status of the Starliner spacecraft and its potential use for bringing astronauts back from the International Space Station. It includes relevant details about the issues faced by Boeing and NASA, as well as the possibility of switching to a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. The article also mentions upcoming events such as an internal review and press conference. However, it could provide more context on the specific issues with Starliner and the decision-making process behind choosing between Starliner or SpaceX.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the potential change in transportation for two astronauts returning from the International Space Station and updates on the status of Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. It also mentions a press conference and possible timelines for decisions. However, it could benefit from more analysis or context on the implications of this decision and the history leading up to it.
Public Companies: Boeing Co. (BA), SpaceX ()
Key People: Bill Nelson (NASA Administrator), Butch Wilmore (Astronaut), Suni Williams (Astronaut)


Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Boeing and SpaceX
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the potential impact on Boeing and SpaceX due to NASA’s decision regarding the use of their respective spacecraft for transporting astronauts back from the International Space Station, which could affect their financial performance and market value.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the article, but the situation with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft facing helium leaks and thruster issues could be considered a minor issue in terms of impact. The issues have led to delays and potential changes in transportation plans for the astronauts, but no major consequences or disruptions are reported.
Move Size: No market move size mentioned.
Sector: Technology
Direction: Up
Magnitude: Small
Affected Instruments: Stocks

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