📷 Image Credits: NDTV
Boeing’s Starliner capsule, piloted by Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, has successfully made its way to the International Space Station (ISS). As the most modern crew module, the spacecraft has been meticulously designed to ensure the safety and comfort of astronauts on board. Standing at 5 meters in height with both Crew Module and Service Module and a diameter of 4.6 m, the Starliner weighed 13,000 kilograms at lift off.
The Starliner is capable of accommodating a maximum of seven crew members, although NASA missions will typically carry a crew of four to five individuals. Demonstrating an innovative approach to space travel, each crew module is designed for up to 10 missions, making the spacecraft partially reusable, while the service modules are crafted specifically for each mission as they are jettisoned in space.
Boeing’s Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 Starliner spacecraft was conceptualized to cater to a mixed payload of crew and cargo for missions to low-Earth orbit. Praising the Starliner as a ‘fantastic spacecraft,’ Sunita Williams highlighted its autonomous operation capabilities, allowing for seamless docking, undocking, and landing processes. The recent docking to the ISS occurred autonomously, showcasing the reliability of the spacecraft.
Furthermore, looking ahead to the future of space exploration, NASA is looking to extend missions to the ISS using the Starliner to enhance the testing and certification process of the transportation system under the Commercial Crew Program. With plans to sell the extra fifth seat on NASA missions to potential customers including commercial astronauts, government-sponsored astronauts, and private citizens, NASA aims to broaden access to space travel.
In light of India’s contribution to space exploration, the Gaganyaan space capsule as part of the Gaganyaan Mission is set to become a significant milestone for ISRO. With the capability to transport up to three astronauts into space to a low Earth orbit, this mission targets its first crewed flight around 2026. Moreover, as stated by Sunita Williams, life on the ISS is akin to a big family, fostering camaraderie among astronauts from diverse backgrounds. As Boeing’s Starliner continues to pave the way for commercial space travel, it remains an integral player in propelling humanity’s journey into the cosmos.
