Boeing Starliner successfully launches astronauts to the ISS
The Boeing Starliner spacecraft has launched on its third attempt, embarking on a mission to transport two NASA astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch took off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Now, with the Starliner in orbit, NASA has the option of using two spacecraft, the Starliner and SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, to ferry astronauts between Earth and the ISS.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Although the Starliner encountered repeated problems during its development, NASA’s Bill Nelson is optimistic about this historic test flight. The successful launch will see the two astronauts arriving at the ISS on Thursday, June 6, with NASA’s live-streamed coverage starting at 9:30 a.m. ET. This mission marks the first time a woman, Suni Williams, is on board a crewed test flight of a new spacecraft.
The recent successful launch comes after multiple launch attempts in the past month were called off due to issues with the rocket and the spacecraft. But now, the Starliner’s launch and arrival on orbit went off without a hitch, making it a momentous occasion for NASA and its commercial partners. If the docking goes as planned, the Starliner will represent a new chapter in American space exploration.
TF Summary: What’s Next
As NASA aims to usher in a new era of human spaceflight, the successful Boeing Starliner launch is a significant step forward. This launching will provide valuable data and prepare the spacecraft for future missions. The live arrival of the Starliner at the ISS will be a must-watch event for space enthusiasts, marking the beginning of a new era in human space exploration.