### NASA Delays Boeing’s Starliner Mission to 2026

NASA has announced a significant delay in the next potential flight of Boeing Co's Starliner spacecraft, now slated for 2026. This decision postpones a critical milestone for the vessel envisioned as an alternative to SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, owned by Elon Musk. Previously, NASA indicated that the Starliner could embark on its next mission to the International Space Station (ISS) by late this year. However, the agency is still assessing whether this upcoming flight will include astronauts or just cargo.

Elon Musk, who has been in a public feud with US President Donald Trump, added another layer of uncertainty by initially threatening to retire the Dragon spacecraft. He later reversed that stance, confirming that the Dragon would continue its operations.

The delay of Starliner underscores NASA’s heavy dependence on SpaceX and Musk. The Boeing vehicle experienced a failed test flight in 2024, resulting in two astronauts remaining on the ISS for more than nine months. Due to unresolved engine issues with Starliner, NASA had to rely on SpaceX’s Dragon craft to bring the astronauts back to Earth safely. As of now, Starliner has yet to be certified for crewed missions.

A representative from Boeing did not immediately provide any comments regarding the delay. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges Boeing faces in delivering a viable spacecraft alternative for NASA.