Boeing's Starliner spacecraft successfully launched with astronauts on board for docking with the ISS as part of a test mission, despite some problems with helium leaks.
Starliner mission
Long-awaited launch
After nearly twenty years of development and numerous delays, Boeing's Starliner spacecraft finally made its first manned flight. On June 5, the Atlas V launch vehicle carrying the Starliner spacecraft took off at 17:52 Kyiv time, heading to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission. On board were NASA test astronauts Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Suni Williams.
Mission objectives
According to the plan, Starliner docking with the ISS should occur on June 6 at 19:00 :15 Kyiv time. During their 8-day stay on the station, the astronauts will conduct a series of tests and tests on the capsule necessary for its certification. The primary objective of the CFT mission is to thoroughly test Starliner's performance before approving the vehicle for longer missions. Williams and Wilmore will fly several manual flights, test emergency scenarios such as loss of communications or power, and conduct a variety of analyzes so future Starliner crews know what to expect.
Overcoming difficulties
The path to a successful start was not easy. The CFT mission was originally scheduled for May 6, but was canceled two hours before launch due to a valve failure discovered on the Atlas V upper stage. Then there was a problem with a helium leak in one of the Starliner service module engines. The mission team ruled the leak minor and approved launch on June 1, but the attempt was aborted minutes before liftoff due to ground equipment failure.
During the flight itself, Starliner also experienced new helium leaks in the service module. The astronauts had to manually close the valves on the damaged manifolds. However, according to NASA's program manager, the ship is capable of handling several such leaks. Boeing engineers consider the helium system safe to fly.
Outlook
If the CFT test mission is successful, Starliner could carry its first crew of astronauts to the ISS for about six months, possibly as early as 2025.
Glossary
- NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) - National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States.
- Boeing is an American aerospace corporation, one of the world's largest manufacturers of aviation, space and military equipment.
- Starliner is a reusable manned spacecraft developed by Boeing under a contract with NASA to transport astronauts to the ISS.
- ISS (International Space Station) is a manned orbital station that serves as a laboratory for space research.
- Atlas V is an American heavy-duty launch vehicle used for Starliner launches.
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Answers to questions
What is the primary purpose of the Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft?
What were the main problems and delays encountered before Starliner's launch?
What new problems have arisen since Starliner's launch?
How do helium leaks affect Starliner performance?
When might the first fully manned Starliner flight to the ISS take place?
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Discussion of the topic – Boeing Starliner: First manned flight to the ISS with a helium leak
After years of preparation, the Boeing Starliner made its first manned launch to the International Space Station, but experienced a problem with a helium leak during flight.
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Джон
Incredible! Finally, Starliner is ready to fly to the ISS 🚀 Although there were delays, this is a big step for the space industry. I'm looking forward to interesting tests in orbit.
Софи
Yes, the launch was successful, despite minor problems. The Boeing team did a good job troubleshooting. It's a shame that there was a helium leak, but it doesn't seem to be critical.
Фредерик
I think they are in too much of a hurry to test Starliner. Three helium leaks in one flight is too much 🤔 It would be better to conduct additional tests on Earth.
Карл
Frederick, don't be such a pessimist! 👴 How many times have the start been postponed due to safety? Astronauts are professionals; they can handle any problems in orbit.
Анна
I agree with Karl. There will always be problems, it is important to be able to work with them. I am sure that the Starliner crew will conduct tests on the ISS with dignity 💪 This is valuable experience for future missions.
Фредерик
OK let's see. In any case, I'm waiting for details about the tests in orbit. I hope everything goes smoothly and the spacecraft is certified. 🛰️
Изабель
I'm wondering how astronauts will test Starliner's manual controls. This is a completely different matter than just flying in automatic mode. 👩🚀 I’m sure you’ll get some breathtaking shots!
Джон
By the way, did you know that on this flight they will practice actions in case of loss of communication and power supply? 🛰️⚡ So funny situations are possible when astronauts are in the dark and without guidance from Earth 😁