Introduction
Boeing's Starliner capsule successfully returned to Earth on September 7th after a nearly three-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS). However, the capsule was empty, as the two astronauts who flew it to the space station in June remained on board to return on a SpaceX capsule later this year.
A Smooth Return Journey
The Starliner capsule departed from the ISS at 6:00 PM ET and spent six hours free-flying through orbit before reentering Earth's atmosphere. The reentry process was flawless, despite the immense heat and pressure it endured.
Landing in New Mexico
The capsule landed safely at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico at 12:01 AM ET. This marks the first time a US-made capsule has parachuted to a ground landing rather than splashing down in the ocean.
Challenges and Future Plans
While the landing was a success, the mission was not without its challenges. Issues with the capsule's thrusters and orientation during the outbound flight led NASA to decide not to return the crew with the vehicle.
The path forward for Starliner is uncertain, and NASA will need to review the data from this mission to determine the next steps. However, the successful landing is a significant milestone for the program.
Conclusion
The return of Boeing's Starliner capsule is a major step forward for US human spaceflight. While the mission did not go exactly as planned, the successful landing is a testament to the capabilities of the spacecraft and the dedication of the teams involved. The future of Starliner remains uncertain, but the program has shown great promise, and we can expect to see more missions in the years to come.