‘Strange Noise Coming Through the Speaker’ – Stranded Astronaut Reports Eerie Sounds on Starliner

By: Sam Watanuki | Published: Sep 02, 2024

Astronaut Butch Wilmore, currently aboard the Starliner spacecraft docked at the International Space Station (ISS), reported a strange noise coming from a speaker inside the spacecraft on August 31, 2024.

The unexpected sound immediately caught his attention, prompting him to contact NASA’s Mission Control in Houston for further investigation.

The Mystery Unfolds

Wilmore’s initial report of the noise to Mission Control was met with surprise. “I don’t know what’s making it,” he said over the radio.

Multiple paper with question mark printed laid on a black table. Magnifying glass on top

Source: Freepik

The noise was described as a repetitive, sonar-like ping that seemed to come from within the spacecraft’s audio system, creating a sense of mystery among the crew and engineers.

Capturing the Strange Sound

In an attempt to help Mission Control analyze the noise, Wilmore placed his microphone close to the speaker. A distinctive pinging sound echoed through the communications channel, described by the ground team as a “pulsing noise, almost like a sonar ping.”

Source: Picryl

This was captured and shared widely, sparking curiosity and concern about the source of the sound.

Comparing to Past Space Oddities

This isn’t the first time astronauts have reported strange sounds in space. In 2003, Chinese astronaut Yang Liwei heard a knocking noise while in orbit.

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft approaching the International Space Station amid black space.

Source: Bob Hines/NASA/Wikimedia Commons

Similarly, Wilmore’s experience on August 31 adds to a long list of unexplained auditory phenomena that have occurred during space missions, each with its own set of possible explanations.

Potential Explanations

Past incidents of unexplained noises, like those heard by Yang Liwei, were often attributed to physical stress or pressure differentials on the spacecraft.

A photograph of the Tiangong Space Station

Source: Wikimedia

Could this be the case with the Starliner? Engineers are now considering whether structural stress or an electronic anomaly could be behind this new mystery.

Starliner’s Troubled Past

The Starliner spacecraft has faced multiple challenges since its launch. From significant helium leaks to failing thrusters, the Boeing and NASA team has had their hands full.

NASA astronauts Suni Williams, left, and Butch Wilmore, wearing Boeing spacesuits, are seen as they speak with NASA, Boeing, and ULA leadership as they prepare to depart the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Complex 41

Source: Joel Kowsky/NASA via Getty Images

These issues raise questions about the spacecraft’s overall reliability, especially with an unexplained sound now added to the list of concerns.

NASA's Quick Response

Once alerted, NASA’s Mission Control swiftly moved to analyze the noise. They connected directly to the Starliner’s hardline audio system to capture the sound more clearly.

Source: Wikimedia

Their rapid response shows the importance of monitoring even the slightest anomalies, especially as the spacecraft prepares for its uncrewed return to Earth.

The Importance of Communication

Clear and effective communication is critical in space missions. Wilmore’s calm demeanor during the incident highlights the importance of experienced astronauts who can handle unexpected situations.

A photograph of several people working in an office at NASA

Source: Wikimedia

His clear reporting also allowed Mission Control to quickly understand and assess the situation, maintaining safety and order.

The Role of Space Engineers

Space engineers are now working to pinpoint the source of the noise.

A group of many people who are mission managers with NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance during a test flight for the Starliner capsule.

Source: NASA/Wikimedia Commons

While the initial hypothesis suggests a benign cause, such as a minor equipment malfunction or a signal anomaly, all possibilities must be explored to ensure Starliner’s safety and the ongoing safety of those aboard the ISS.

Scheduled Return Adds Pressure

With the Starliner set to undock from the ISS and return to Earth autonomously on September 6, 2024, time is of the essence.

People collect parachutes and parts of the Starliner craft after it lands during sunrise.

Source: NASA/Bill Ingalls/Wikimedia Commons

Engineers must quickly determine whether this sound poses any risk to the spacecraft’s systems or its safe return journey.

Preparing for an Autonomous Return

Autonomous spacecraft, like the Starliner, rely heavily on advanced technology and precise calculations for a successful return to Earth.

Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft rolls out of the Commercial Crew and Cargo Processing Facility on its way to its Space Launch Complex 41 at the Kennedy Space Center

Source: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Any potential issues, such as this unexplained sound, must be addressed promptly to ensure that the spacecraft can safely navigate back to Earth.

Awaiting Answers

For now, the source of the mysterious sound remains unknown. Wilmore and his crewmate, Suni Williams, will continue their mission aboard the ISS, awaiting further instructions.

Astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Butch Wilmore in front of the Boeing Starliner craft.

Source: NASA/Kim Shiflett/Wikimedia Commons

Meanwhile, NASA and Boeing engineers are left scratching their heads, pondering the Starliner’s latest enigma.