Launch of Boeing's Starliner – Careers Ready Careers Raedy

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On May 7, Boeing's Starliner spacecraft will launch two NASA astronauts to the International Space Station from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

related facts

This is the first time Starliner will carry astronauts and will test its ability to do so.

What is Boeing's Starliner?

Boeing's Starliner is also known as CST-100 (Crew Space Transportation).
It is a crew capsule, designed for space travel.
It is partially reusable, meaning it can be used for multiple missions.
It consists of two modules:
- Crew Module: This is where astronauts stay during their journey.
- Service Module: This part is like the powerhouse of the spacecraft, providing electricity, propulsion (motion), temperature control, air and water for the astronauts in space.

What is the mission?

Objective: To test how well the Starliner performs in space with astronauts on board.
- It aims to dock with the ISS a day after launch and remain there for about 10 days before returning to Earth.
- Key points about Starliner's crewed test flight and return trip
  - During the mission the astronauts will test the new space suit.
    - These blue suits are about 40% lighter than their predecessors and feature touchscreen-sensitive gloves.
  - During the return trip, NASA and Boeing will closely monitor the Starliner's heat shield and parachute.
  - They will slow the descent before the airbags deploy to ease the landing.
    - Unlike many other crew capsules, Starliner will land on land, not in the ocean.
Importance of mission for NASA and Boeing
- NASA
  - Backup Options: Approval of Starliner would provide NASA with a backup option for regular flights from the ISS.
    - This will reduce dependence on any one company or vehicle for space launch.
- boeing
  - Competition with SpaceX: If Starliner achieves its goals, it could enable Boeing to compete more effectively with SpaceX in the commercial space sector.