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Starliner fails to make ISS?

Accepted submission by PiMuNu at 2019-12-20 14:28:27
News

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-50855395 [bbc.co.uk]

FTFA:
America has taken another step towards being able to launch its astronauts into orbit again, a capability it's not had for nearly nine years. The Boeing company has launched a test capsule towards the International Space Station (ISS). Known as Starliner, the vehicle is flying uncrewed on this occasion.

However, there are indications that the launch has not gone as planned, as the capsule has failed so far to make the next stage to the ISS. The Administrator of Nasa, Jim Bridenstein, tweeted information which suggested Starliner he thought a station rendezvous was no longer possible. The capsule separated from its launch rocket as anticipated but was reported to be pointing incorrectly. An engine burn stabilised its orbit, but there are doubts now that it can actually reach the station. Boeing put out a statement saying flight controllers were "assessing next steps".


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