Boeing is gearing up for another shot with its Starliner space capsule after facing multiple setbacks over the years. This comes after a string of troubles, including a terrifying incident involving a Boeing 737 Max, safety concerns raised by whistleblowers, and a criminal investigation by the Justice Department. But before all of this, Boeing was already grappling with issues concerning its Starliner spacecraft.

The Starliner, intended to transport astronauts to space under a $4.2 billion NASA contract, encountered various problems that delayed its missions significantly. Its initial test flight saw the onboard computer fail, while a second test was scrapped due to valve issues. Even after a successful unmanned test, Boeing found that insulation tape inside the capsule was flammable, requiring removal. Additionally, the parachute system needed redesigning.

Now, a decade after NASA awarded Boeing the contract, the company is ready to attempt a crewed flight. Scheduled for Monday at 10:34 p.m., veteran astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore will embark on a crucial mission, testing Boeing’s space capabilities. The objective is to evaluate how the spacecraft performs with crew onboard, including manual flying tests and autonomous docking with the International Space Station (ISS). NASA and Boeing are particularly keen to assess the spacecraft’s heat shield and parachutes during the return journey, expected to last around eight days.

NASA officials express confidence in Boeing’s preparations, highlighting the rigorous efforts undertaken to ensure mission success. They view Starliner as a vital addition to SpaceX's spacecraft in ferrying astronauts to the ISS. James Free, NASA’s associate administrator, emphasized the thoroughness of the teams’ preparations, while Steve Stich, overseeing NASA’s commercial crew program, emphasized a methodical approach to achieving a successful flight.

Indian-Origin Astronaut Sunita Williams Getting Ready for Historic Fly Into Space Again