Summary
Four astronauts, previously delayed due to issues with Boeing's Starliner, launched to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a SpaceX capsule. This crew, consisting of members from the U.S., Japan, and Russia, will stay at the ISS for at least six months. NASA is adapting its plans for longer missions and fewer crew members due to budget constraints and Starliner's continued problems.
Key Facts
- Four astronauts launched to the ISS using a SpaceX capsule after delays due to Boeing's Starliner issues.
- The crew includes astronauts from the U.S., Japan, and Russia.
- The SpaceX capsule will remain at the ISS for at least six months.
- NASA is considering extending space station missions from six to eight months to save money.
- Boeing's Starliner spacecraft faced thruster failures and helium leaks, delaying further crewed missions until at least 2026.
- NASA and Russia plan to cooperate on steering the aging ISS into the Pacific by 2030.
- SpaceX's final mission for NASA will involve returning the deorbit vehicle to the space station by 2029.
