📷 Image Credits: Digital Trends
Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner successfully launched atop a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on June 5th, bringing NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station. Originally planned for a week-long stay, NASA extended their mission until June 22 for departure planning, engine tests, and thruster performance evaluation.
Astronaut Matthew Dominick shared stunning footage of the Starliner against a backdrop of aurora borealis. The time-lapse video, shot from inside SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, showcased Williams and Wilmore inside the Starliner, with their flashlights illuminating the cabin.
Another shot captured by Dominick showed the aurora seemingly emanating from the spacecraft itself, with the thrusters of the Starliner aligning perfectly with the natural light show. This delightful sight was shared on social media, garnering attention for the spacecraft and its future possibilities.
Upon full certification post this test flight, NASA plans to utilize the Starliner alongside SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for crew and cargo missions to the space station. Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, highlighted the importance of understanding the Starliner’s capabilities for future extended missions to the ISS.
Boeing and NASA teams are geared up for the first crewed launch of the Starliner spacecraft. Following recent delays, the aim is to make this mission a success after overcoming challenges with software and hardware in previous flights. With the potential for more frequent crewed missions to the ISS, the Starliner represents a significant step in the future of space travel and exploration.
