Mon Dec 09 14:08:05 UTC 2024: ## Starliner Crew Successfully Docks with ISS, Shares Thanksgiving Greetings from Orbit
**CAPE CANAVERAL, FL** – Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams successfully completed the Boeing Starliner’s Crew Flight Test, docking with the International Space Station (ISS) on July 10th. The mission, a crucial step in advancing commercial space travel, began with the pair entering the Astrovan bound for Space Launch Complex-41.
Before launch, Wilmore and Williams underwent rigorous pre-flight checks, ensuring both their spacesuits and the Starliner spacecraft were functioning optimally. Following a successful launch and docking, they were greeted warmly by the ISS crew.
The astronauts participated in a live video call with media and the public on July 10th at 11 a.m. ET, providing a detailed mission update and discussing their manual flight experiences during the test. They also shared insights into their preparations and the challenges encountered.
In a unique message from space, the astronauts underscored the importance of civic engagement, encouraging everyone to register to vote using resources like vote.org. More recently, the crew shared their Thanksgiving celebrations from the ISS, highlighting their holiday meal and connecting with Earthbound traditions despite their unique location. NASA and Boeing leaders also provided regular updates to the public via NASA TV. The successful mission marks a significant milestone for Boeing’s Starliner program and the future of commercial space travel.
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