A new image shows the aurora filling an incredible timelapse view as the Starliner astronauts performed a critical flight test in space.
Currently, The Starliner capsule is docked at the International Space Station (ISS). Its crew is carrying out extensive tests on the ship’s thrusters, an important step before building safe docks.
Because of this On June 6, a docking problem arose at the station. At the same time the work became hectic. The reason? Windows of SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, docked with the ISS.
NASA had astronauts A chance to see a unique sky view. As Starliner conducted its tests, a bright green aurora was perfectly aligned with the thrusters of the service module.
He Astronaut Mathew Dominik shared this moment on his social networks in a timely mannerHighlighting the beauty of Aurora dancing in space, he noted that the timing was perfect for Aurora to align well with the Starliner Service Module thrusters.
Teams from @NASA And @Boeing Space NET at 10:10pm and are targeting June 25 for undocking #starliner Spacecraft from @Space StationLanding early June 26 at White Sands Spaceport in New Mexico.
Further: https://t.co/QouNVM58Jq pic.twitter.com/HzF2KW7rPc
— NASA Commercial Crew (@Commercial_Crew) June 18, 2024
What are auroras and why are they so fascinating?
These flashing events Charged particles from the Sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. The particles glow and emit vibrant colors, creating a stunning display.
Currently, The Sun is particularly active because of its 11-year activity cycleThat means auroras have changed frequently on Earth and in space.
starliner, Co-piloted by veteran NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, a development mission is underway.. Before 2025 it is fully certified for orbital missions to the ISS starting with Starliner-1.
Important technical challenges are currently being addressed. Additionally, due to propulsion testing and spacewalks, Crew Flight Test (CFT) work has been extended To allow for a more complete assessment.
Space exploration aboard the Starliner
During work, The team will conduct additional hatch operations to better understand its handling. In addition to repeating some “safe haven” checks and piloting assessment using the ship’s front window. Essential measures to guarantee safety and efficiency in future operations.
Starliner and Dragon are two commercial spacecraft supported by NASA since 2014 To carry astronauts to ISS. At the time, both ships were expected to fly before 2017. However, technical and financial challenges delayed those plans.
when SpaceX could send its first astronauts into space in 2020 After a successful uncrewed test mission, Starliner faced several setbacks in 2019 such as not reaching its destination due to computer problems.
Dozens of similar challenges with the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 delayed a second unmanned test until 2022. Despite the success, new problems arose. For example, Problems with loading parachutes and flammable tapeThis delayed the launch of the Crew Test (CFT) mission until 2023.
behind, The release of CFT was delayed by another month from May 6 to June 5. Several problems with United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket and a small helium leak in Starliner’s boosters were fixed for its successful launch.
