The troubled Boeing Starliner spacecraft remains stuck at the International Space Station, with NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams unsure of their return date as the space agency considers its options. The spacecraft's latest setback is revealed, as reported by Ars Technica, with revelations that the current flight software is incapable of autonomously undocking from the space station and reentering through the Earth's atmosphere.

This new hurdle adds to the growing list of difficulties faced by Boeing and NASA during the disastrous crewed flight test. The control system thruster issues on the Starliner capsule have caused significant delays for Williams and Wilmore's return, leaving NASA to contemplate alternative plans. One option under consideration is to bring back the spacecraft without any astronauts on board. However, the latest reports imply that even this choice may no longer be on the table due to the software limitations.

It remains unclear why Starliner's software, which successfully demonstrated autonomous docking procedures during its uncrewed orbital flight test in May 2022, is now unable to perform the necessary procedures for a safe return. Updating the software to address this issue is a complex and time-consuming task that could take up to four weeks, as stated by sources. This potential delay could also impact the upcoming SpaceX Crew Dragon mission, which was initially scheduled for launch on August 18 but may now face a pushback to September 24.

NASA Commercial Crew program manager Steve Stich emphasized the integral role of the crew in the Starliner spacecraft, highlighting its design as a vessel with the crew in the cockpit. This statement raises questions about whether NASA has bought itself enough time to update the software and enable the spacecraft to return autonomously.

As the evaluation continues, NASA and Boeing face mounting pressure to find a solution for the stranded Starliner and its crew. The prolonged delay in the return of Williams and Wilmore underscores the importance of resolving the software issue and ensuring the spacecraft's safe journey back to Earth. With all eyes on the space agency's decision, it remains to be seen how NASA will adapt its plans and whether a resolution can be reached in a timely manner.

In the meantime, the Astronaut Office and engineers at NASA will continue evaluating the available options and exploring contingency plans to ensure the safe return of the astronauts and the successful completion of the mission.