NASA and Boeing are closely collaborating to evaluate the propulsion system of the Starliner spacecraft following ground tests that revealed degraded performance. The Starliner, which carried NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the International Space Station, completed a reaction control system thruster test at White Sands that uncovered issues with its performance.

Engineering teams from NASA and Boeing recently conducted ground hot fire testing at the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico to simulate the conditions the spacecraft will face during its approach and landing. Results from the thruster test indicated degraded performance, reflecting what has been observed in orbit.

Further docked hot fire tests are scheduled to verify the thrusters' operation and check for helium leaks. An agency-level review is set to take place this week to finalize the return plan for the Starliner, with a televised briefing expected following the review.

Although originally scheduled to return on June 14, the Starliner docked to the ISS on June 6, with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams providing assistance with science investigations and data collection aboard the space station. NASA and Boeing will continue to work together to ensure a safe return for the spacecraft and its crew.