In Photos: Boeing’s ‘Starliner’ Is NASA’s Newest ‘Astronaut Taxi’ After Spectacular Return Trip To The Space Station
ForbesSep 09, 2022
The Facts
On Wed., Boeing's crew taxi returned to Earth from the International Space Station. The Starliner capsule parachuted into the New Mexico desert just four hours after leaving the ISS, bringing a mannequin back to the Earth's surface.
The uncrewed capsule completed a six-day mission to the ISS. The successful mission is a key step for NASA's Commercial Crew Program - which is an initiative for private companies to bring NASA astronauts into Low Earth Orbit.
The Spin
Narrative A
A few years ago, it seemed to be a given that Boeing - the world's largest aerospace company and a titan of global aviation - would dominate in the commercial space field. Instead, SpaceX disrupted the industry and beat them to the launchpad. Boeing now risks being stuck in a catch-up limbo amid its worsening reputation.
Narrative B
This is an exciting development for both Boeing and NASA. The do-over test is off to a successful start, and Boeing is catching up to SpaceX. A second transportation option for NASA provides competition, innovation, and flexibility. It also means it won't have to rely on Russian spacecraft.