NASA astronaut aboard the International Space Station expressed concern over unidentified pulsating sounds originating from the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, prompting further investigation by Mission Control.
On Saturday, while soaring aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore reported a peculiar noise emanating from the Boeing Starliner capsule, which is scheduled to depart the station and return to Earth on autopilot in the coming days.
Wilmore relayed his inquiry to Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston, transmitting an audio recording that captured the enigmatic sound. Mission Control officials described it as a "pulsating noise, almost like a sonar ping."
Astronaut Reports Baffling Noises Emanating from Starliner Capsule
Wilmore repeated the sound for Mission Control's analysis, confirming that it originated from within the Starliner. Ars Technica initially revealed the bizarre noise based on a recording obtained and distributed by meteorologist Rob Dale of Michigan.
NASA's Boeing crew flight test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams previously occupied the Starliner capsule alongside the ISS's Harmony module. However, due to a cascade of technical issues, including thruster failures and helium leaks, NASA opted to postpone their return until February, leaving the Starliner without any onboard crew for its upcoming departure.
Astronaut Reports Baffling Noises Emanating from Starliner Capsule
Boeing had anticipated that Starliner's first crewed mission would revitalize the beleaguered spacecraft program after a series of delays and mounting costs. Despite recent successful thruster tests in space and on the ground, the company maintained that Starliner remained a safe vehicle for transport.
However, the recent emergence of the unidentified noise has cast a shadow of uncertainty over Starliner's readiness for autonomous flight. Mission Control and Boeing are now actively investigating the source of the sound, with further updates expected in the near future.
Astronaut Reports Baffling Noises Emanating from Starliner Capsule
Meanwhile, Starliner remains docked to the ISS, awaiting its imminent departure and autonomous return to Earth's surface. The spacecraft is expected to touch down in the desolate New Mexico desert, marking a crucial milestone in Boeing's efforts to restore confidence in its troubled spacecraft program.
Fox News Digital has sought clarification from Mission Control and Boeing regarding the investigation into the Starliner noises. As additional information becomes available, updates will be provided to the public.
