Many of the deficiencies identified in the report were not addressed.
Boeing’s response processes for past defects have been ineffective, and the company has not been responsive in taking corrective action for recurring quality control issues,” the company stated.
When asked for comment, a Boeing representative directed NBC News to NASA.
In a written response included in the report, Katherine Corner, deputy administrator for NASA Headquarters’ Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, emphasized NASA’s commitment to the highest technical and programmatic standards.
NASA is dedicated to ensuring that its personnel and contractors are qualified, well-trained, and prioritize mission safety,” Corner expressed.
The report suggested various recommendations, such as imposing financial penalties on Boeing for not meeting quality control standards. However, NASA opted not to levy any financial penalties.
The Space Launch System, standing at 322 feet tall, along with the Orion spacecraft, aims to launch astronauts to the moon to establish a base on its surface.
NASA successfully conducted an uncrewed test flight of the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft in 2022 (Artemis I mission). The following year, four astronauts are scheduled for a crewed flight around the moon (Artemis II mission).
Aside from the first-generation SLS rocket, NASA is also working on a more powerful model capable of carrying more cargo to the moon, led by Boeing as the prime contractor for the enhanced upper stage, known as the Space Launch System Block 1B, with work commencing in 2014.
Originally, an improved rocket system was planned to transport Artemis 2 astronauts into lunar orbit, but this timeline adjustment delayed development and raised costs, as stated by the inspector general.
According to a new report, the Block 1B version of the SLS could potentially cost up to $5.7 billion per launch.
This assessment marks a setback for NASA’s lunar return program, plagued by delays and budget overruns. Over the span of more than a decade, the agency has invested over $42 billion in the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft.
Last year, NASA’s inspector general estimated each Artemis launch to cost $4.2 billion.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
