Starliner is the name for an ambitious project from Boeing, meant to bring a Crew Space Vehicle (CSV) to the International Space Station (ISS). Originally, Boeing had hoped to launch the first Crewed Mission to the ISS as early as 2018. However, the launch date has been pushed back multiple times due to various delays and technical difficulties.
The most recent setback for the Starliner project occurred in December of 2019 when an uncrewed test flight of the spacecraft to the ISS failed to go as planned. The spacecraft was unable to dock with the space station due to a software glitch, and instead the spacecraft had to divert to an alternate abort trajectory. Despite the failure of the test flight, the Crewed Mission is currently still on track to launch in 2020.
When it comes to the space exploration industry, the failure of the Starliner has been seen as a huge setback for what was seen as a promising new venture. Boeing has been hard at work attempting to make a case for the Starliner, stating that although the recent failure was a major setback for the project, there have been some significant improvements and progressions in the project that should not be overlooked.
Boeing has also claimed that the Starliner is a highly advanced and reliable spacecraft, and they have even roped in a few celebrities, such as music mogul Dr. Dre, to support the project and further their case. In addition, the company is also working towards making the Starliner more cost efficient and user friendly.
Despite these efforts however, the Starliner is still facing an uphill battle in the realm of public perception. Many view the project as a failure, and this has caused many potential customers and investors to shy away from the program. However, Boeing is continuing on their mission and is determined to prove its reliability and the successful launch of the Crewed Mission is considered to be the first step towards that goal.
It remains to be seen whether or not Boeing will be able to successfully make a case for the Starliner project, and only time will tell whether Starliner can become the success that was once thought to be its future. Until then, the company will have to rely on convincing the public and potential investors of the reliability of the spacecraft in order to ensure its success.