Boeing launches into space with this capsule after nearly two years

Nearly two years later, Boeing is once again trying to launch the Starliner into space. In 2019, the test flight still failed and had to be aborted.

When you think of the space battle, you probably immediately think of SpaceX and Blue Origin. However, aircraft manufacturer Boeing is also involved. With Starliner, the company is developing a capsule that will carry astronauts into space.

New Boeing Starliner test

It’s been over a year and a half since Starliner was launched. This failed and he returned to Earth earlier than expected. Now comes another test. One just like the last one without astronauts in the capsule. If successful, the manned flight with the Boeing capsule will be a lot closer.

The new flight takes place in Florida and the rocket powering the capsule is manufactured by United Launch Alliance (ULA). The capsule is intended to dock with the International Space Station, just like the SpaceX Crew Dragon. Both capsules are also part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Boeing received a contribution of $4.5 billion from the space agency, while SpaceX had to suffice with $2.7 billion.

NASA has high expectations of Starliner. The capsule can accommodate seven astronauts. However, testing in 2019 did not go well. There were many loopholes in the software at the time. As a result, Boeing decided to return the capsule to Earth earlier than expected and did not allow it to dock with the International Space Station. Now the problems should be resolved and Boeing can finally do the test.

Release date on this date

You are likely to ask yourself when this is. That’s close. The test flight is scheduled for Tuesday at 7:20 PM Dutch time. At least, if all goes well. With the current weather forecast, there is a 40 percent chance of the weather where the launch cannot begin. If it does not work out, the launch will be postponed by a day. In total, the capsule will remain in space for 10 days. launch via YouTube channel from NASA.