Boeing Starliner Astronaut Mission to Lift Off in May 2024

Critical Test Flight to Prove Starliner's Capabilities

Launch Scheduled for June 1, 2024

Boeing is gearing up for its first-ever Starliner astronaut mission for NASA, with a launch date set for as early as May 6, 2024. This critical test flight aims to demonstrate the reliability of the Starliner spacecraft and its ability to safely transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS).

The launch, part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, will occur from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The mission, designated Crew Flight Test (CFT), will involve two astronauts who will spend several weeks on the ISS before returning to Earth.

The Starliner launch campaign will commence 45 days before liftoff, with United Launch Alliance stacking an Atlas V rocket at the launch site. The spacecraft will then be integrated with the rocket and undergo a series of tests to ensure its readiness for flight.

NASA plans to provide live streaming and blog updates of the countdown milestones, with coverage beginning at 8:15 AM EDT on June 1, 2024. The live launch coverage on NASA TV is scheduled to commence at 12:25 PM EDT.

This test flight is crucial for Boeing to prove the Starliner's capabilities and gain NASA's certification for regular astronaut missions to the ISS. The successful execution of the mission will pave the way for Boeing to join SpaceX in providing safe and reliable access to space for the United States.