From Investing.com: 2024-06-06 11:47:10

Boeing’s Starliner capsule with a NASA crew is set to dock with the International Space Station, despite helium propulsion leaks affecting some thrusters. The capsule, carrying astronauts Wilmore and Williams, was launched from Florida and is on track to dock with the ISS at 12:15 p.m. ET. The crew will conduct standard procedures before entering the station.

The spacecraft’s approach to the ISS is being livestreamed by NASA, showcasing the capsule in orbit. Once docked, the astronauts will join the station’s current crew members for an eight-day stay. The return flight will see Starliner reenter Earth’s atmosphere and land in the U.S. Desert Southwest with parachute and airbag assistance.

During its journey, Starliner’s propulsion system detected helium leaks, impacting some thrusters used for maneuvering. NASA and Boeing confirmed astronaut safety, noting backup thrusters would compensate for the loss. Starliner, built to compete with SpaceX, seeks certification for astronaut missions upon the successful completion of this test flight.



Read more at Investing.com: Boeing Starliner capsule nears first crewed ISS docking as new issues arise By Reuters