In June 2024, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams were aboard the Boeing-built Starliner capsule during its first crewed test flight to the International Space Station. This mission faced a critical moment when the spacecraft's thrusters failed, causing it to become dangerously out of control. Fortunately, the astronauts managed to restart the propulsion system and execute a manual docking with the ISS, averting what could have been a catastrophic situation. The capsule was eventually returned to Earth, but not without further issues regarding the thrusters during re-entry. The investigation into this incident labelled it as a life-threatening 'Type A mishap,' comparable to the tragic Space Shuttle disasters in 1986 and 2003. NASA officials expressed deep concern over what nearly transpired, with new NASA chief Jared Isaacman remarking that had different decisions been made or if docking had failed, the mission's outcome could have been completely different. This harrowing experience for the astronauts has underscored serious shortcomings in the capsule's readiness for crewed missions. The Starliner faced numerous technical challenges throughout its development phase, including the use of flammable materials in electrical systems and significant failures within its parachute system. The Boeing company has asserted that since the incident, they have introduced substantial corrective actions and cultural changes to prevent similar failures in the future, yet concerns remain regarding the spacecraft's preparedness. As NASA prepares to launch further missions, including a historic mission to loop around the moon, these alarming developments have prompted questions about the agency's approach to operational safety. Officials acknowledge that there was an intense focus on securing an operational alternative to the SpaceX capsule used for ferrying astronauts to the ISS. As they proceed with plans for the Artemis mission, NASA emphasizes launching only when complete confidence in the rocket’s readiness is achieved. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the complexities and risks associated with space exploration.