Astronaut Sunita Williams’ highly anticipated third space journey, aboard the Boeing Starliner, faced an unexpected setback as technical issues forced the postponement of the launch mere hours before liftoff. The delay, attributed to a glitch in the oxygen relief valve of the Atlas V rocket, has left the new launch date uncertain.
Scheduled to depart from Florida’s Kennedy Space Centre in Cape Canaveral at 8:04 am India time, the Starliner’s mission was primed to mark another milestone for Williams, an icon for women in space exploration. However, with just 90 minutes remaining, the launch was abruptly called off by NASA.
Both Williams and fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore, slated for the journey to the International Space Station, safely disembarked from the spacecraft following the announcement of the delay.
This mission was poised to be historic, as Williams aimed to become the first woman to embark on the maiden crewed voyage of a new space shuttle. With an illustrious space career that includes 322 days spent in orbit and a record for the longest cumulative spacewalk duration by a woman, Williams remains a trailblazer in space exploration.
Expressing a blend of excitement and nerves, the 59-year-old astronaut had eagerly anticipated this venture, having contributed to the design of the Starliner alongside NASA and Boeing engineers. Reflecting on her upcoming journey, Williams likened her return to the International Space Station to a homecoming.
In preparation for the mission, Williams revealed plans to carry an idol of Lord Ganesh, her “good luck charm,” symbolising her Indian heritage and spiritual connection. Known for her athleticism, Williams has previously completed a triathlon in space, showcasing her dedication to fitness even amidst the challenges of zero gravity.
Beyond personal milestones, the 10-day mission was slated to validate the Starliner’s capabilities and readiness for NASA certification, a crucial step towards future long-duration missions for the US space agency.
