Boeing’s Starliner capsule finally docked at the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday after a nerve-wracking series of thruster malfunctions delayed its arrival. The spacecraft, carrying NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, faced last-minute technical glitches that nearly derailed its historic first crewed test flight. 🌌
Zero-G Celebrations & Challenges
After the 260-mile-high (420 km) docking over the Indian Ocean, Williams entered the ISS first, dancing her way in like she was walking into a party 🎶. Wilmore followed, snapping his fingers and sharing hugs with the seven crew members already aboard the station. \"That’s the way to get things going,\" Williams quipped.
But the journey wasn’t all smooth sailing. The Starliner launched Wednesday with one known helium leak, but three more sprung up mid-flight. Boeing and NASA remain confident the spacecraft can safely return to Earth after at least eight days at the ISS, aiming for a landing in the western U.S.
What’s Next for Starliner?
🚀 Extended stay at ISS for system checks
🛠️ Monitoring of helium leaks and thruster performance
🌎 Preparing for re-entry and landing
Wilmore summed up the mission’s spirit: \"Nice to be attached to the big city in the sky.\" Stay tuned for updates as Boeing’s space taxi eyes its return trip!
