Video: Boeing Starliner Launch Aborted Over Faulty Valve
Boeing
Boeing canceled its attempt to send two astronauts into orbit. Technical issues with the oxygen release valve of the Centaur second stage of the Atlas V rocket led to the halt of the Starliner spacecraft’s launch at 8:33 pm EDT.
The launch of Starliner, initially scheduled for 10:34:14 pm EDT, was aborted after NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita Williams had boarded.
Technicians Spring into Action Following Launch Scrub
Upon receiving the news, technicians promptly commenced the process of disembarking the astronauts and draining the cryogenic fuel from the United Launch Alliance rocket.
While launch aborts are common, this incident is a significant embarrassment for Boeing, which is responsible for building and operating the Starliner spacecraft.
Today’s launch had a precise timing window, meaning even the slightest delay would have led to its cancellation.
Boeing’s High Stakes with Starliner
However, the success of Starliner was crucial for Boeing, which has faced numerous setbacks, including delays, cost overruns, and technical issues with the spacecraft.
Additionally, the company has dealt with other challenges such as aircraft crashes, safety concerns, employee fatalities, executive changes, and declining stock value, raising doubts about its future.
Read the original article on: Science Alert
