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Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test Launch Date Revised to May 19

Second Attempt to Launch Crew to International Space Station

Following technical setbacks, Boeing has announced a new launch date for the uncrewed Orbital Flight Test-2 (OFT-2) of its Starliner spacecraft. The mission, which was originally scheduled to launch on May 6, will now lift off on May 19 at 12:25 p.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Technical Issues and Preparations

The launch delay was caused by a problem with an oxygen valve on the Atlas V rocket provided by United Launch Alliance (ULA). The issue was discovered during a pre-launch test, and engineers have been working to resolve it. The team has also been conducting additional checks and inspections to ensure the spacecraft is ready for flight.

Starliner's crew access tower, which is the first new access tower to be built along Florida's Space Coast since the Apollo era, is now complete. The tower will provide astronauts with a safe and efficient way to board and exit the spacecraft.

Mission Objectives

The OFT-2 mission will be Starliner's second uncrewed test flight to the International Space Station (ISS). The spacecraft will carry over 400 pounds of cargo to the ISS and will remain docked for several days before returning to Earth.

Future Crewed Flight

The successful completion of OFT-2 is a critical step towards Boeing's goal of conducting a crewed flight test later this year. The Crew Flight Test will carry astronauts to the ISS, marking a significant milestone in the development of Starliner's capabilities.

Conclusion

With the launch date revised and technical issues addressed, Boeing is confident in the readiness of Starliner for its upcoming mission to the International Space Station. This uncrewed test flight will pave the way for future crewed missions, demonstrating the spacecraft's potential to support human exploration and research in low-Earth orbit and beyond.

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