NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which selected Boeing and SpaceX as the winners, has encountered a compatibility problem with the spacesuits provided by the two companies. The issue arises from the differing designs of the Intra-Vehicular Activity (IVA) suits, which do not align with each other or other systems. In an effort to foster innovation and maintain a wide range of options, NASA did not impose strict cross-compatibility requirements on the IVA suits.

The incompatibility between SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft and Boeing's Starliner is a result of NASA's approach to the Commercial Crew program. In the past, NASA was deeply involved in every aspect of spacecraft procurement, but this program allowed private partners to design and innovate, as long as they met NASA's broad requirements, safety standards, and specific milestones, such as a successful crewed test flight.

Despite the importance of IVA suits for crew safety during space missions, NASA has confirmed in a recent teleconference call that it is considering a workaround for the incompatibility issue. One potential solution is to fly back astronauts Barry Wilmore and Megan McArthur Williams without suits. This alternative poses some safety concerns but may be considered as a temporary measure.

Another possible solution being considered is to include two additional spacesuits on the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, scheduled for 2025. This would allow Wilmore and Williams to have proper suits for their return journey, although it would mean accommodating two fewer passengers on the mission. NASA continues to evaluate these options and prioritize the safety of the astronauts involved.

The compatibility issue with the IVA suits highlights the unique nature of the Commercial Crew Program and NASA's willingness to rely on private industry for innovation and design. While it allows for increased competition and development, it also presents challenges when different companies adopt diverse approaches to space systems.

NASA remains committed to finding a suitable resolution to the incompatibility problem, ensuring the safety of astronauts and the success of future manned missions under the Commercial Crew Program.