Boeing goes into space with this capsule after almost 2 years

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

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

A new test of the Boeing Starliner

We are now more than a year and a half after the launch of Starliner. It failed and returned to Earth sooner than expected. Now comes another test. Just like the last one without astronauts in the capsule. If successful, a manned flight with a Boeing capsule will be much closer.

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

NASA has high expectations of the Starliner. The capsule can accommodate seven astronauts. Nevertheless, the 2019 test did not go well. There were several problems in the software at the time. As a result, Boeing decided to bring the capsule back to Earth earlier than planned and did not allow it to dock with the ISS. Now the issues should be resolved and Boeing can finally perform the test.

The launch date is on this date

You will probably be wondering when this one is. It’s soon. The test flight is scheduled for Tuesday at 7.20pm Dutch time. At least if all goes well. With the current weather forecast, there is a 40 percent chance that the launch will not be able to take place. If that doesn’t work, the launch will be postponed for one day. In total, the capsule will stay in space for 10 days. The launch is done via the Youtube channel from NASA.