Starliner Lifts Off, Boeing's Crew Flight Test on Track

Successful Launch and Separation

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft successfully lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on Wednesday. The spacecraft separated from the Atlas V rocket as planned and is now on its way to orbit.

"Boeing's Crew Flight Test is right on track," said Mark Nappi, vice president of Boeing's Starliner program.

Orbit Insertion Scheduled

The Starliner capsule is scheduled to enter orbit around the Earth on Thursday. The spacecraft will then conduct a series of tests, including a docking with the International Space Station.

"This is a major milestone for Boeing and for our human spaceflight program," said Nappi. "We are one step closer to our goal of providing safe and reliable transportation to and from the International Space Station."

First Capsule Launch

This is the first time that the Starliner capsule has launched into space. The spacecraft is designed to carry up to seven astronauts to and from the International Space Station.

The Starliner is competing with SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. NASA awarded both companies contracts to develop and operate spacecraft to transport astronauts to the space station.