The planned takeoff of the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, which was set to bring NASA astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS), was canceled just two hours before the scheduled launch due to a technical issue. An anomaly in a valve on the Atlas V rocket, which was supposed to propel the capsule into orbit, was discovered by ULA group, the rocket’s manufacturer. NASA emphasized that safety is their top priority and Bill Nelson, head of NASA, stated that the launch will happen “when we are ready.”
The next launch attempt is expected to occur today, but no specific date has been announced yet. Other possibilities for launch are Friday or Saturday. Boeing is heavily invested in this mission as they aim to join the group of spacecraft that have transported humans to ISS. They must first demonstrate the safety of their vehicle before beginning regular missions to the Space Station following SpaceX’s four-year lead.
The original launch of American astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams was scheduled for 10:34 pm local time from Cape Canaveral, Florida. Preparations had gone smoothly with both astronauts onboard, rocket fueled and favorable weather conditions. Having a second vehicle like Starliner is crucial for NASA as it provides flexibility in responding to emergencies or issues with other spacecraft. Boeing has faced challenges in developing Starliner including trajectory errors during an uncrewed test in 2019 and delays due to various technical problems.
Despite these challenges, Boeing remains determined to succeed with Starliner program. Their teams have become stronger in overcoming obstacles they have faced and delays may be common in developing human spacecraft but Boeing is committed to ensuring safety and success of their missions.