What's happened
Nasa's SpaceX Crew-8 Dragon capsule Endeavour was relocated at the International Space Station to make room for Boeing's Starliner capsule, which is set to launch on its first-ever crewed mission. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will be test pilots for Boeing's Starliner capsule, flying to the ISS for a weeklong shakedown cruise.
Why it matters
The relocation of the SpaceX Crew-8 Dragon capsule and the upcoming launch of Boeing's Starliner capsule mark significant milestones in advancing space exploration and commercial space travel. These missions demonstrate the collaboration between NASA and private companies in expanding human presence in space and testing new spacecraft technologies.
What the papers say
The Independent provides live updates on the relocation of the SpaceX Crew-8 Dragon capsule and the upcoming launch of Boeing's Starliner capsule, highlighting the involvement of NASA astronauts in these missions. Ars Technica offers insights into the vision of a former SpaceX engineer for the Starship program, emphasizing the potential for innovative cargo transportation to the Moon and Mars.
How we got here
The SpaceX Crew-8 Dragon capsule was relocated to accommodate Boeing's Starliner capsule, which is preparing for its first crewed mission to the International Space Station. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will be test pilots for the Starliner capsule, following years of delays and technical challenges in Boeing's spacecraft development.
More on these topics
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The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an independent agency of the U.S. Federal Government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.
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The Boeing Company is an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and sells airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, satellites, telecommunications equipment, and missiles worldwide.
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Space Exploration Technologies Corp., trading as SpaceX, is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company headquartered in Hawthorne, California.