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.
.png;width=70;height=70;mode=crop;format=webp)
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
-
Thermoplastic composites welding advances for more sustainable airframes
Multiple demonstrators help various welding technologies approach TRL 6 in the quest for lighter weight, lower cost.
-
Natural fiber composites: Growing to fit sustainability needs
Led by global and industry-wide sustainability goals, commercial interest in flax and hemp fiber-reinforced composites grows into higher-performance, higher-volume applications.
-
Materials & Processes: Fabrication methods
There are numerous methods for fabricating composite components. Selection of a method for a particular part, therefore, will depend on the materials, the part design and end-use or application. Here's a guide to selection.
