Why is it in the news?

• Indian-origin astronaut Captain Sunita Williams and her colleague are preparing to embark on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft.

More about the news

• The Boeing Starliner is a spacecraft designed to transport astronauts in space, following its launch by a rocket.
• It comprises two main components: the crew capsule and the service module.
• The crew capsule is where the astronauts reside during the journey and is equipped to survive re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere and return safely to the ground.
• The service module contains essential equipment and systems necessary for astronauts to survive in space, including air and temperature control, water supply, sanitation facilities, etc.
• Additionally, the service module houses engines and fuel required for manoeuvreing the spacecraft. Unlike the crew capsule, the service module is not reusable.
• Overall, the Boeing Starliner spacecraft represents a significant advancement in space transportation technology, enabling safe and efficient travel for astronauts to and from the International Space Station.