Boeing CST-100 Starliner to begin final preflight testing
The craft will undergo environmental qualification testing at Boeing's satellite test facilities in El Segundo, CA, US.
Boeing on Nov. 21 announced that after years of design, test and production, its CST-100 Starliner is ready to begin final preflight testing.
The crew capsule, known as Spacecraft 2, is to take Boeing astronaut Chris Ferguson and his two NASA crewmates, Eric Boe and Nicole Mann, to the International Space Station on the Starliner’s first crewed flight planned for next year.
In preparation, Spacecraft 2 will undergo environmental qualification testing at Boeing's satellite test facilities in El Segundo, CA, US where it will experience fierce vibrations, the vacuum of space, extreme temperatures and electromagnetic radiation. Upon successful conclusion of the test program, the Starliner will be deemed ready for the harsh environment of space. The craft will then fly an unmanned test flight prior to a crewed test flight and operational missions.
Related Content
-
Plant tour: Middle River Aerostructure Systems, Baltimore, Md., U.S.
The historic Martin Aircraft factory is advancing digitized automation for more sustainable production of composite aerostructures.
-
Bio-based acrylonitrile for carbon fiber manufacture
The quest for a sustainable source of acrylonitrile for carbon fiber manufacture has made the leap from the lab to the market.
-
Thermoset-thermoplastic joining, natural fibers enable sustainability-focused brake cover
Award-winning motorcycle brake disc cover showcases potential for KTM Technologies’ Conexus joining technology and flax fiber composites.