Boeing Starliner Orbital Flight Test 2 Launch - Watch Live

Starliner OFT-2: Second Launch Attempt Update

Update 08/03/2021 @ 10:44 AM EST: Today’s launch attempt has been officially postponed. A new date for the next attempt will be announced as soon as it is determined. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

Boeing's Second Starliner Flight to the ISS

Boeing is preparing for a second launch of its Starliner CST-100 commercial crew spacecraft to the International Space Station. This mission serves as a crucial demonstration before astronauts are onboarded for the final major launch. Successful completion is required before NASA certifies the spacecraft for routine operational flights.

A Redo of the 2019 Mission

Today’s mission, designated “Orbital Flight Test 2” (OFT-2), is a repeat of a flight initially conducted in December 2019. The original OFT-1 mission was intended to be a single attempt.

However, the first attempt faced challenges. Software anomalies led to an unintended firing of the spacecraft’s engines. This premature burn consumed fuel needed for the planned automated docking with the Space Station.

Salvaging the Initial Test Flight

Boeing attempted to recover the initial test by initiating a landing procedure. This attempt also encountered an issue, but it was successfully resolved prior to a safe touchdown.

Delays and Investigations

Boeing initially aimed to refly the mission last year, but the schedule experienced several delays. A global pandemic occurring during this period undoubtedly contributed to these postponements.

Both Boeing and NASA undertook comprehensive investigations. These investigations focused not only on the root cause of the OFT-1 issues but also on the software development culture and processes within Boeing.

The Commercial Crew Program

The Starliner is one of two commercial spacecraft contracted by NASA to transport astronauts to the International Space Station. The other is developed by SpaceX.

SpaceX successfully completed its orbital flight test and subsequently flew astronauts on its final demonstration launch. It is now a regular provider of crew transportation services to NASA, having already delivered two astronaut crews for standard ISS missions.

Focus on a Successful Launch

Consequently, significant attention is directed towards Boeing to ensure a flawless execution of OFT-2. The company has had ample time since the previous flight to address errors and finalize preparations.

The launch is scheduled for 1:20 PM ET. Live coverage will begin around 12:30 PM ET via the stream provided.