NASA's Starliner Spacecraft Successfully Launches with Astronauts on Board

 

In a historic moment for space exploration, NASA's Boeing Crew Flight Test launched on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 10:52 a.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are on board the Starliner spacecraft, bound for the International Space Station.

The launch marks the first crewed flight test of the Starliner spacecraft and the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. The mission aims to validate the transportation system, launch pad, rocket, spacecraft, and in-orbit operations capabilities.

The Starliner spacecraft is expected to dock at the International Space Station on Thursday, June 6, at approximately 12:15 p.m. EDT, where Wilmore and Williams will join the Expedition 71 crew. The astronauts will spend about a week on the station, testing the spacecraft's systems and performing scientific experiments.

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson praised the successful launch, stating, "Two bold NASA astronauts are well on their way on this historic first test flight of a brand-new spacecraft... Human spaceflight is a daring task – but that's why it's worth doing."

The mission marks a significant milestone in NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which aims to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station from the United States.

Stay tuned for updates on the mission, including arrival and in-flight coverage on NASA Television channels and online platforms.  #Starliner
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