NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have reported hearing an unusual, rhythmic pulsating noise emanating from Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. This issue arises just days before the spacecraft is scheduled to depart from the International Space Station (ISS) for its return to Earth. The noise, described as sounding like a sonar ping, has heightened concerns about the spacecraft’s condition.
According to a Fox News report, the astronauts captured the sound using onboard equipment. The pulsating noise was recorded and shared by meteorologist Rob Dale, who described it as a rhythmic, pulsing sound occurring at regular intervals. Despite the oddity of the noise, the astronauts did not express significant concern but did highlight it as a notable occurrence.
The sound appears to be coming from the Starliner’s internal speaker system. Wilmore, in particular, played the sound for Mission Control, providing them with another chance to analyze the issue. This step was taken to help determine the cause and assess whether it might indicate a more serious underlying problem.
NASA and Boeing have faced several technical challenges with the Starliner, including helium leaks and thruster malfunctions during previous missions. These issues have delayed the spacecraft’s progress and extended the astronauts’ stay aboard the ISS. The reported noise adds to the list of concerns but is not immediately linked to a critical malfunction.
Mission Control has yet to issue a public statement about the noise but has assured the astronauts that the situation is under investigation. The focus is on understanding whether the sound signifies a minor issue or if it could impact the spacecraft’s upcoming uncrewed mission.
Originally scheduled for a one-week mission, Williams and Wilmore’s stay has been extended due to the Starliner’s technical difficulties. Their return to Earth is now planned for February 2025, when they will return aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule. Meanwhile, they continue to perform scientific research and maintenance on the ISS.
Williams, a seasoned astronaut with over 400 days in space, and Wilmore, have remained engaged in their duties despite the extended mission. The Starliner’s performance will be closely monitored, and any findings from Mission Control will be crucial in ensuring the safety and success of future space missions.