The Boeing Starliner Capsule Prepares for Crew Flight Test Mission to the ISS
In a bid to further its space exploration efforts, NASA showcased the Boeing Starliner capsule set to fly the Crew Flight Test mission to the International Space Station (ISS) at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in April 2023.
Astronauts are currently undergoing rigorous training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston to prepare for future Starliner missions. The space agency is gearing up to launch the Crew Flight Test mission, tentatively scheduled for no earlier than May 6.
Boeing and SpaceX were both awarded contracts in 2014 to transport NASA astronauts to the ISS. While SpaceX successfully launched astronauts in 2020, Boeing has faced delays due to technical issues.
Crews are dedicating hundreds of hours inside simulators to simulate real-life scenarios and emergencies. The focus is primarily on safety and the proper handling of unexpected situations. The simulators provide an accurate representation of the Starliner cockpit, utilizing manual switches over touchscreens for radiation protection.
Astronauts closely collaborate with trainers during scripted scenarios to practice dealing with anomalies during simulations. Virtual reality (VR) technology is also being employed to help astronauts interact with a virtual Starliner cockpit and review maintenance tasks and checklists.
The implementation of VR technology not only enhances training experiences but also makes it more portable and cost-effective compared to traditional physical simulators. As NASA strides towards further space exploration, the training and preparation of astronauts are key components in ensuring the success and safety of missions to the ISS.
