NASA News: Sunita Williams Set for Third Space Journey on Boeing Starliner
Introduction
Sunita Williams, an astronaut of Indian origin, is ready for her third space journey. She will pilot Boeing’s Starliner, marking a milestone in NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Initially postponed due to a technical issue, the flight is now scheduled for tonight. Accompanying her will be fellow NASA astronaut Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore on this critical test flight to the International Space Station (ISS).
When Will Sunita Williams’ Third Flight to Space Begin?
Sunita Williams’ mission to the ISS will lift off from Florida’s Kennedy Space Centre at 10 pm Indian Standard Time today. This test flight is significant because Williams and Wilmore will be the first astronauts to board the Starliner spacecraft. Thus, the mission showcases the capabilities of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
About Sunita Williams
Sunita Williams holds the former record for the most spacewalks by a woman. She is a United States Navy officer and participated in Expedition 14 and Expedition 15. After her Navy service, NASA recruited her, and she has become a prominent figure in space exploration. Williams, who received the Padma Bhushan award, returned to Earth on shuttle Atlantis’ STS-117 flight in June 2007. Her astronaut career began in June 1998 when NASA selected her.
Starliner’s Debut Crew Launch Flight
The Starliner’s debut crew launch involves the spacecraft being propelled into space by an Atlas 5 rocket, courtesy of United Launch Alliance (ULA). The spacecraft is expected to reach the ISS by Sunday. During their week-long stay, Williams and Wilmore will conduct various tests. If the mission proceeds as planned, the Starliner will return on June 10, landing with parachute and airbag assistance in the southwestern United States.
What’s at Stake for Boeing in Sunita Williams’ Space Mission?
This mission’s success is crucial for Boeing. It will solidify their role in providing spacecraft and systems for NASA’s crewed missions to the ISS. Therefore, a successful test will pave the way for NASA to use the Starliner capsule for regular missions. These missions could carry four astronauts or a combination of crew and cargo to low Earth orbit.
NASA, Boeing, and ULA are prepared for the June 1 launch of the Boeing Crew Flight Test. Teams have worked diligently over the past weeks. “I’m very proud of the teams who have worked really hard the last two and a half weeks to prepare for launch,” said Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. “We’re really ready to go fly,” he added.
Anticipation
The anticipation for Sunita Williams’ third space journey is high. This mission represents a significant step forward for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program and Boeing’s aerospace ambitions. Consequently, the outcome will be a crucial indicator of the future of crewed space flights and the continued collaboration between NASA and commercial partners.
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