Boeing Starliner’s First Crewed Test Flight on May 7

Boeing's Starliner is a spacecraft designed to transport astronauts into space and back to Earth. It consists of a crew capsule and a service module, each with specific functions.

Key Features of the Boeing Starliner:

1. Purpose: Starliner is intended to transport astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) and serve as a backup for the SpaceX Dragon capsule.
2. Design: The Starliner has an innovative, weldless structure, making it reusable up to 10 times. It can accommodate up to seven astronauts and features wireless internet and tablet technology for crew interfaces.
3. Dimensions: The Starliner is over 4 metres wide and can house up to 7 astronauts.

4. Spacecraft Components:

   1. Crew Capsule: Houses the astronauts and is designed to survive re-entry and return to the ground.
   2. Service Module: Contains the equipment and systems necessary for astronauts' survival in space, including air and temperature control, water supply, sanitation, and engines for maneuvering.
5. Launch Vehicle: Starliner will be propelled into orbit by an Atlas V rocket made by United Launch Allianc, a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

NASA's Role:

In 2014, NASA awarded contracts to SpaceX and Boeing to develop spacecraft capable of carrying astronauts to the ISS.

1. While SpaceX has already completed 13 missions to the ISS using its Dragon Crew capsules, Starliner's upcoming mission will be the first time the US will have two spacecraft to launch astronauts into space.

Significance of the Starliner Mission:

1. The successful completion of the Starliner mission will provide the U.S. with two spacecraft capable of launching astronauts to space, ensuring continued access to the ISS and enhancing mission flexibility.
2. It will also serve as a milestone in the development of reusable spacecraft, potentially reducing the cost of space exploration in the future.

International Space Station (ISS):

1. The International Space Station (ISS) is a large spacecraft in orbit around Earth, serving as a home for crews of astronauts and cosmonauts and a unique science laboratory.
2. 5 space agencies collaborate in its operation:
   1. NASA,
   2. Roscosmos,
   3. JAXA,
   4. ESA, and
   5. CSA.
3. The ISS consists of various modules, each with distinct functions.