In a historic moment for space exploration, the Boeing Starliner spacecraft is set to launch with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sonny Williams aboard, marking the first crewed mission to the International Space Station (ISS) using the Starliner. As the countdown reached just under seven and a half minutes, the launch team conducted a thorough status check, confirming that all systems were \"go\" for launch.

The launch director expressed pride in the collaborative efforts of NASA, Boeing, and United Launch Alliance (ULA), emphasizing the significance of the mission for the nation. \"This is a great day to be proud of your nation,\" he stated, highlighting the teamwork that has brought the Starliner to this pivotal moment.

As the countdown progressed, the team encountered a brief hold at T-minus 3 minutes and 50 seconds due to a readiness issue with the launch control switch. However, the team quickly addressed the situation, ensuring that all systems remained stable and ready for launch.

With the crew access arm deployed and all systems verified as operational, the team prepared to resume the countdown. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the mission aimed to demonstrate the capabilities of the Starliner and further establish commercial partnerships in space travel.

As the countdown resumed, the excitement was palpable, with the launch team and viewers alike eager to witness this milestone in human spaceflight. The mission not only represents a technological achievement but also a step forward in the ongoing exploration of space, reinforcing the commitment to international collaboration in scientific endeavors.