Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for NASA’s Space Operations Mission Directorate, expressed immense pride in the team’s effort throughout the flight test. “We are pleased to see Starliner’s safe return,” Bowersox said. “While it was necessary to bring the spacecraft back uncrewed, NASA and Boeing gained invaluable insights into Starliner’s performance in the harshest conditions possible. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Boeing as we work toward certifying Starliner for crewed missions to the space station.”
The June 5 flight marked the first time astronauts flew aboard the Starliner, which completed its third orbital flight and second return from the space station. Starliner will now be sent to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for inspection and processing.
NASA’s Commercial Crew Program mandates that spacecraft undergo a crewed test flight to demonstrate readiness for routine missions to and from the space station. Following Starliner’s return, NASA will assess all mission-related data.
“We’re thrilled to have Starliner safely back,” said Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. “This test flight was crucial in preparing for future missions on the Starliner system. We gained valuable lessons that will support our long-term success. I want to acknowledge the entire team for their dedication and hard work over the last three months.”
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams launched aboard Starliner on June 5 for the Boeing Crewed Flight Test from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. However, as Starliner neared the space station on June 6, helium leaks and issues with the spacecraft’s reaction control thrusters were identified. After extensive in-space and ground testing, and several technical and safety reviews, NASA made the decision to return the spacecraft without its crew. Wilmore and Williams remain aboard the space station as part of the Expedition 71/72 crew and are scheduled to return in February 2025 with NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission.
The crew flight test is a critical part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which aims to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transport to the International Space Station and low Earth orbit. The program enhances research opportunities aboard the space station and supports NASA’s preparation for future human exploration of the Moon and Mars.
For more information on NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, visit
