NASA to order additional Starliner missions and support new rocket certification

NASA is preparing to secure the future of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft as it plans for a post-SpaceX Crew Dragon era. With SpaceX signaling intentions to retire the Crew Dragon vehicle by 2030, NASA is taking proactive steps to maintain a redundant human spaceflight capability. Sources indicate that the agency will soon announce an order for two additional crewed Starliner missions. Furthermore, NASA plans to provide financial support to address ongoing technical challenges with the spacecraft's thrusters and will assist in certifying the vehicle for launch on a new rocket platform, as the current Atlas V launch vehicle approaches retirement. These measures reflect NASA's commitment to ensuring continuous access to low-Earth orbit for its astronauts, despite the Starliner program's historically difficult development and operational record. The move underscores the strategic importance of maintaining multiple commercial partners for the International Space Station and future orbital missions.