Why Sunita Williams' mission onboard the Boeing Starliner is significant

Boeing’s Starliner capsule finally launched into space with a two-person crew on board. Aboard this historic flight is Sunita Williams, an Indian-origin National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronaut.

We explain why this spaceflight, Williams’ third is historic. We also dive into what this will mean for the United States’ effort to maintain independent access to space for its astronauts.

But first, a little bit about Boeing’s Starliner mission.

Boeing CST-100 Starliner mission overview

The Boeing CST-100 Starliner is a spacecraft developed under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. This initiative aims to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to the International Space Station (ISS) and other low Earth orbit (LEO) destinations. The Starliner can carry up to seven passengers or a combination of crew and cargo, and is designed for reusability up to ten times with a six-month turnaround.

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Its capability for autonomous docking with the ISS, along with provisions for manual control, highlights its advanced technological design. Named Calypso by Williams in homage to Jacques Cousteau’s research vessel, the Starliner embodies a spirit of exploration and discovery.

A milestone for Sunita Williams, women

Sunita Williams’ involvement in this mission is a landmark achievement in multiple ways. At 59, Williams has already had an illustrious career in space, and this mission further solidifies her place in history.

By flying on the Starliner, she became the first woman to test an orbital spacecraft on its maiden crewed flight. This milestone is a significant moment for women in aerospace, a nod to the continued progress in gender representation in space exploration.

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Williams’ extensive background, including previous long-duration stays on the ISS and participation in numerous spacewalks, brings invaluable expertise to the Starliner’s trial.

Overcoming delays and challenges

The Starliner mission has faced numerous delays and technical challenges, a testament to the broader organisational issues within Boeing. Originally scheduled for earlier launches, the mission was delayed due to issues in the propulsion system and to check a helium leak. The significance of the spaceflight is also high because of the built-up anticipation.

The mission’s success is crucial in breaking the current monopoly held by SpaceX in providing crewed transportation to the ISS. Since the retirement of the Space Shuttle program in 2011, NASA has relied heavily on Russian Soyuz rockets and, more recently, SpaceX’s Dragon capsules.

If the Starliner is successful, it will herald Boeing’s entry into this domain, breaking SpaceX’s dominance and diversifying the options for NASA to send its astronauts to space. It would also strengthen the US’ position in maintaining independent access to space. This independence is strategically vital, reducing reliance on international partners and enhancing the nation’s capability to conduct uninterrupted space missions.

The 100th launch of the Atlas V rocket

The Starliner’s mission, carrying veteran NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Williams, launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Atlas V rocket.

Another aspect that adds to the significance of this mission is the fact that it marked the 100th launch of the Atlas V rocket. The Atlas V has been a workhorse for NASA and the Department of Defense, launching satellites and other critical payloads into space. Its legacy dates back to the early days of space exploration, including John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth in 1962. The successful launch of the Starliner on this iconic rocket underscores the reliability and enduring importance of the Atlas V in the annals of American space history.

Williams’ historic flight, the overcoming of significant delays, and the commemoration of the 100th Atlas V launch are all responsible for the high importance accorded to this mission.

With inputs from agencies