Boeing’s Starliner Launches Astronauts for First Time in Historic Liftoff
Scientific AmericanJun 05
Boeing Starliner Docks With Space Station
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The Facts
Boeing's Starliner capsule arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday after last-minute thruster trouble nearly derailed its first crewed mission. The capsule had a small helium leak before takeoff, and two more emerged hours into the flight.
The Starliner capsule took off at 10:52 am ET on Wednesday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida after years of delays. It docked at the ISS at 3:46 ET on Thursday when a fourth leak was discovered.
The Spin
Narrative A
Boeing has arrived as a major player in the space industry with the successful launch of its Starliner, and the aerospace titan should be proud of this milestone. While there were bumps along the way, the Starliner has demonstrated that it can safely send NASA astronauts to the ISS and start launching longer missions by next year. Boeing’s efforts are paying off, and the company is ready to compete with the likes of SpaceX as a leader in space travel.
Narrative B
Regardless of Wednesday’s launch, Boeing has failed in its development of the Starliner. It has taken over a decade to achieve any meaningful progress, and failed attempts have only embarrassed the company. If that wasn’t bad enough, Boeing has had several high-profile issues with its airplanes that have diminished public trust. While it may be committed to its space missions, Boeing should instead focus on the safety of its airplanes.