Boeing's Starliner Spacecraft Set for Historic Astronaut Mission

First-Ever Crewed Flight for Boeing

Weather Not a Concern for Historic Launch

By Elizabeth Howell and Tariq Malik

Updated: June 5, 2024, 5:48 PM UTC

Boeing is poised to make history today with the launch of its first-ever Starliner astronaut mission. The uncrewed spacecraft, which is set to launch on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, will be carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station (ISS).

The launch, which is scheduled for approximately 25 minutes from now, marks a significant milestone for Boeing's commercial space program. If successful, it will pave the way for the company's first crewed Starliner mission later this year.

Boeing officials have expressed optimism about the upcoming launch, noting that the weather forecast is favorable and that the spacecraft has undergone extensive testing. "Today's launch means a lot to Boeing," said Kathy Lueders, NASA's associate administrator for human exploration and operations, in a statement. "We're excited to see Starliner fly and to take another step toward our goal of regular, commercial human spaceflight to and from the International Space Station."

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