NASA controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2019
Boeing Starliner test flight reaches the wrong orbit
Safety incident
Boeing's Starliner capsule reached the wrong orbit on its first test flight after its mission clock malfunctioned. NASA canceled the planned docking with the International Space Station and shifted focus to returning the capsule to Earth.
Stated objective. The flight was designed to test all systems, from the vibrations and stresses of liftoff to the touchdown at the Army's White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, with parachutes and air bags to soften the landing.
Source excerpt
NASA canceled the Starliner's docking with the International Space Station, instead focusing on a hastier than planned return to Earth.
Boeing's new Starliner capsule ended up in the wrong orbit after lifting off on its first test flight Friday, a blow to the company's effort to launch astronauts for NASA next year.
2003
Space Shuttle Columbia disaster
Columbia disintegrated during atmospheric reentry after damage to its thermal-protection system had occurred during launch. The investigation examined engineering analysis, communication, risk management, and organizational culture, leading to program changes and a lengthy suspension of Shuttle operations.
1986
Space Shuttle Challenger disaster
The Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart shortly after launch, killing all seven crew members. Investigations identified technical and organizational failures, including concerns about the solid rocket booster joint and decision-making under launch pressure.