Boeing's Starliner Successfully Docks with ISS on Crew Flight Test
October 11, 2025
Boeing's Starliner spacecraft successfully docks with the ISS, a major milestone for NASA's Commercial Crew Program.
In a landmark achievement for human spaceflight, Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft has successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS). The spacecraft, carrying veteran NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, completed its rendezvous and docking sequence, marking a critical milestone in NASA's Commercial Crew Program and validating a new American vehicle for transporting crews to low Earth orbit.
A New Era for Commercial Crew Transport
This Crew Flight Test (CFT) is the culmination of years of development by Boeing in partnership with NASA. The goal of the Commercial Crew Program is to foster safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the ISS from the United States through private industry. With the certification of Starliner, NASA will have two independent human space transportation systems, ensuring redundant access to the orbiting laboratory.
The Journey to the International Space Station
Launched atop a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, the Starliner embarked on a carefully orchestrated journey to the ISS. During the transit, astronauts Wilmore and Williams tested various spacecraft systems, including manual piloting controls, to verify that Starliner is ready for operational missions.
- End-to-End System Validation: The mission tests the rocket, spacecraft, and ground systems from launch to docking and eventual landing.
- Manual Control Testing: The crew performed manual maneuvers to demonstrate control authority over the spacecraft's flight.
- Habitability and Life Support: Astronauts evaluated the spacecraft's environment and life support systems throughout the flight.
Scientific and Strategic Significance
The success of this mission is strategically vital for the United States and its international partners. It ensures a continuous human presence on the ISS, which serves as a unique microgravity laboratory for scientific research benefiting life on Earth and preparing humanity for future deep-space exploration missions, including NASA's Artemis program to the Moon.
Two U.S. commercial companies transporting crew to the ISS means we have a robust capability that will allow us to continue to take advantage of the unique science and technology development opportunities the orbiting laboratory has to offer.
What's Next for Starliner and its Crew?
Wilmore and Williams are scheduled to spend approximately one week aboard the ISS, working alongside the Expedition 71 crew. During their stay, they will conduct further tests on Starliner's systems. Upon completion, the spacecraft will undock and perform its deorbit burn, concluding with a parachute and airbag-assisted landing in the southwestern United States. This final phase will provide crucial data for NASA's final certification.
The successful docking of the Starliner not only expands America's capability in low Earth orbit but also strengthens the foundation of a burgeoning commercial space economy, heralding a future of increased access to space for science, commerce, and exploration.
Boeing's Starliner Successfully Docks with ISS on Crew Flight Test - FAQs
The primary goal is to conduct an end-to-end test of the Starliner spacecraft, including launch, docking with the ISS, and landing, to achieve NASA certification for regular crewed missions.
The crew consists of two veteran NASA astronauts: Commander Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Pilot Sunita "Suni" Williams.
Having a second vehicle, alongside SpaceX's Crew Dragon, provides assured and redundant access to the International Space Station, enhancing safety and mission flexibility for the U.S. and its international partners.
Unlike other capsules that splash down in the ocean, the Starliner is designed to land on the ground in the southwestern United States using a combination of parachutes and large airbags to cushion its landing.