Boeing Starliner Set for Historic Crewed Launch to ISS
The CST-100 Starliner is poised for its first manned mission, marking a critical step for Boeing in commercial space travel.
- The Boeing Starliner, mounted on an Atlas V rocket, is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral on May 6, carrying two veteran NASA astronauts.
- This mission, if successful, will validate Boeing's capabilities in crewed spaceflight, competing with SpaceX's established operations.
- NASA and Boeing have rigorously tested the Starliner following previous setbacks, including software and hardware issues, to ensure astronaut safety.
- Post-mission, Boeing plans to conduct regular six-month crew rotations to the ISS, with the first operational mission set for early 2025.
- The crewed flight is part of NASA's broader strategy to utilize commercial spacecraft for ISS missions, ensuring continued access to space.