The anticipated launch of the Boeing Starliner, scheduled to carry astronaut Sunita Williams on her third space voyage, has been postponed due to a technical issue. A new launch date has not yet been determined.

Williams, a prominent figure in space exploration for women, was poised to embark on her journey aboard the new spacecraft today. The launch was planned from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center at 8:04 am India time. However, just before liftoff, approximately 90 minutes prior, the launch of the Atlas V rocket was halted. NASA cited an abnormal condition with an oxygen relief valve as the reason for the delay. Both Williams and NASA’s Barry Wilmore, slated to accompany her to the International Space Station, safely exited the spacecraft.

This mission would have marked Williams’ third space voyage. She holds the record for the most hours of spacewalk by a woman, a distinction later surpassed by Peggy Whitson. Additionally, Williams was set to make history as the first woman to fly on the inaugural crewed mission of a new space shuttle.

Williams’ previous space travels occurred from December 9, 2006, to June 22, 2007, and from July 14 to November 18, 2012. Despite feeling some nerves, the 59-year-old expressed confidence in flying aboard the new spacecraft, which she contributed to designing alongside NASA and Boeing engineers. She likened reaching the International Space Station to returning home.

Before the planned flight, Williams mentioned her intention to bring an idol of Lord Ganesh as her “good luck charm” on this journey, having previously carried a copy of the Bhagwad Gita. Notably, she completed a triathlon in space, showcasing her enthusiasm for physical challenges even in zero gravity.

The 10-day mission aimed to demonstrate the Starliner’s capabilities in space and validate the team’s preparedness for NASA certification, paving the way for future long-duration missions for the agency.

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