A report by NASA’s inspector general highlighted deficiencies in Boeing’s space programs, specifically the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft, which are designed to launch astronauts to the moon. The report noted that many identified deficiencies were not fixed, and Boeing’s process to address quality control issues was ineffective. Despite recommendations for financial penalties for noncompliance with quality control standards, NASA decided against imposing any discipline. The report also mentioned delays in the development schedule and increased costs related to the upgraded version of the SLS rocket, known as Block 1B, which is being developed by Boeing.
NASA completed an uncrewed test flight of the Space Launch System and Orion capsule in 2022, with a crewed flight expected in 2025. The agency’s goal is to establish a base on the lunar surface. However, setbacks and budget overruns have plagued the program, with the SLS Block 1B version estimated to cost $5.7 billion by the time of its launch. Overall, NASA has spent more than $42 billion on its return-to-the-moon program, with each Artemis launch estimated to cost $4.2 billion.
The report’s findings underscore the challenges faced by NASA in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its missions, and raise concerns about Boeing’s role as a prime contractor in the space program. In response to the report, NASA reiterated its commitment to holding programs to the highest technical and programmatic standards, but the ongoing issues and delays highlight the complexities of space exploration and the need for rigorous oversight and accountability.
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