Helium Leaks Detected on, Boeing Starliner , During Approach to ISS.<br />Reuters reports that Boeing's new Starliner capsule <br />has run into new problems on its approach to <br />dock with the International Space Station.<br />Helium leaks were detected on the CST-100 <br />Starliner, which is carrying the spacecraft's <br />inaugural two-member NASA crew. .<br />With veteran astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and <br />Sunita "Suni" Williams aboard, the CST-100 Starliner <br />successfully launched from Florida on June 5. .<br />On its way to the ISS, helium leaks were detected on the Boeing spacecraft's propulsion system, which rendered a number of its 28 thrusters unusable.<br />According to NASA and Boeing, <br />the crew remains safe, and the CST-100's <br />backup thrusters can compensate for the loss.<br />On June 6, NASA mission managers gave Boeing the <br />green light to proceed with docking procedures <br />while the agency continues to monitor the leak rate.<br />NASA's plan will see Wilmore and Williams remain <br />aboard the ISS for eight days before departing <br />on a return flight through Earth's atmosphere.<br />The mission will then end with a first-ever <br />parachute and airbag-assisted landing for <br />a crewed mission in the U.S. Desert Southwest. .<br />The successful June 5 Starliner launch <br />came following years of technical problems, <br />leading to a series of setbacks and delays. .<br />Reuters reports that Boeing's Starliner is currently <br />several years behind schedule and has already <br />exceeded its budget by over $1.5 billion. .<br />Reuters reports that Boeing's Starliner is currently <br />several years behind schedule and has already <br />exceeded its budget by over $1.5 billion.
