Boeing's $6 Billion Spacecraft Is Stranded In Space. Meanwhile, SpaceX's Much Cheaper Version Works Perfectly Since 2020

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, intended to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS), has been stuck in space for the last two months due to a series of technical issues. 

The Starliner was supposed to bring two NASA astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, back to Earth on June 14, but helium leaks and overheating thrusters have delayed their return.

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Since its inception, the Starliner program has cost Boeing a staggering $5.8 billion, more than SpaceX spent on its successful Crew Dragon program. According to Ars Technica, Boeing announced another $125 million loss on the Starliner program, bringing their total losses to $1.6 billion since the project began.

Why The Costs Are So High 

Boeing and NASA signed a $4.2 billion fixed-price contract over a decade ago, which means Boeing is responsible for any additional costs due to delays or technical issues. Boeing initially promised the Starliner would be ready by 2017, but the first crewed mission only launched in June 2024. 

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Delays and ongoing technical problems have resulted in considerable financial strain on the company. Quality control issues have impaired Boeing’s performance not just in space but also in its other ventures, like the 737 MAX passenger airplane.

SpaceX's Crew Dragon: A Smooth Journey

In contrast, SpaceX's Crew Dragon has been flying astronauts without major issues since 2020. NASA awarded SpaceX a $3.1 billion contract to develop the Crew Dragon, less than half the amount given to Boeing. 

Despite this, SpaceX has completed nine crewed missions for NASA and secured an extension for six more flights.

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NASA initially wanted two companies to develop spacecraft for astronaut missions to ensure reliability and safety. While SpaceX has delivered on its promises, Boeing is still working to overcome its technical challenges. 

Despite all of these issues, NASA still has hope that Boeing can fix the problems with the Starliner and become a viable option for future space missions. Boeing plans to address the helium leaks and overheating thrusters to prepare for regular six-month expeditions to the ISS, with the first operational mission expected in February 2025.

As Starliner program manager Mark Nappi said in a recent update, “The crew's feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and they know that every bit of learning we do on the Crew Flight Test will improve and sharpen our experience for future crews.”

Leadership Changes And Future Outlook 

Boeing has announced a change in leadership, with Kelly Ortberg taking over as CEO. He will replace Dave Calhoun, who faced criticism over scandals related to the 737 MAX airplane. Ortberg’s experience in the aerospace industry might be the fresh start Boeing needs to steer the Starliner program back on track.

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