Boeing's Starliner spacecraft successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) despite multiple technical challenges, marking a major milestone for its first piloted test flight.
Commander Barry "Butch" Wilmore and co-pilot Sunita Williams monitored the automated approach, achieving docking at 1:34 p.m. EDT, 260 miles above the Indian Ocean.
The mission faced helium leaks and thruster problems, including the closure of valves affecting reaction control system (RCS) jets and OMAC thrusters. Ground teams and the crew worked together to develop solutions.
After docking, the Starliner's crew was welcomed by the seven Expedition 71 crew members. The arrival included music, dancing, and a celebratory atmosphere aboard the ISS.
Despite discovering additional helium leaks and RCS jet deselections, the crew and flight controllers managed to proceed with docking after resolving key issues, demonstrating the spacecraft's redundancy and resilience.
Boeing plans to inspect hardware for future flights to identify and mitigate similar issues. The encountered problems are considered minor and will be addressed before the next mission.
NASA officials assured that sufficient helium remains for a safe return to Earth. Boeing's Mark Nappi characterized the issues as routine for new spacecraft and expressed confidence in resolving them for subsequent missions.