Boeing Works to Open Starliner Valves, Determine Cause of Valve Issues

As Boeing teams continue to work around the clock to return functionality to a number of oxidizer valves on the CST-100 Starliner’s propulsion system, the company is simultaneously working with its NASA and Aerojet Rocketdyne partners to determine the cause of the valve issues discovered during prelaunch checks.

Nine of the previously affected 13 valves are now open and functioning normally after the application of electrical and thermal techniques to prompt and command them open. Similar techniques are now being applied to the four valves that remain closed.

“Over the past couple of days, our team has taken the necessary time to safely access and test the affected valves, and not let the launch window dictate our pace,” said John Vollmer, Starliner vice president and program manager.

The company will work with NASA and United Launch Alliance to confirm a new launch date when the spacecraft is ready.

Boeing will continue to provide information at www.StarlinerUpdates.com as it becomes available.