An exciting milestone for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program is fast approaching at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Soon, the Crewed Flight Test will send two astronauts – Pilot Suni Williams and Mission Commander Butch Wilmore – to the International Space Station aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft for the first time. A successful test flight with astronauts will mean that NASA can begin the final process for certifying the Starliner spacecraft and systems for regular crew rotation flights to the space station.
Before this amazing launch, you can get up close to several models and experiences only inside Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex®.
Located inside, you’ll find:
A Boeing Blue spacesuit, similar to what will be worn by all crew members aboard the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft. An adjacent VR experience will allow you to try your hand at virtually wearing the spacesuit’s gloves.
Did you know? Adam Savage constructed this spacesuit under the guidance of Boeing and their spacesuit designer.
A mockup of the Boeing Starliner, which will ferry the two astronauts to the International Space Station after it separates from Atlas V.
Did you know? This mockup has been used for hours of training and is designed for a ground landing rather than water.
And speaking of Atlas V, a model of the rocket is also displayed inside Gateway.
A Boeing CST-100 Starliner simulator puts you in the pilot’s seat, giving you the chance to fly it!
If you’ve been to Gateway before, let us know what your favorite part was in the comments below!
