NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers are embarking on a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday at 8 a.m. ET. This all-female extravehicular activity (EVA) is scheduled to last six hours and 35 minutes, with live coverage available on NASA+ and NASA’s YouTube channel. The primary objective is to enhance the station’s power systems and prepare for future upgrades.
ISS Maintenance and Power Upgrades
The astronauts will focus on relocating a communications antenna and installing a mounting bracket. This bracket is crucial for the upcoming installation of new International Space Station Rollout Solar Arrays (IROSA). The IROSA project aims to significantly boost the ISS’s power generation capabilities. These new solar arrays will increase the station’s total available power by up to 30%, from 160 kilowatts to 215 kilowatts. This power boost will support ongoing research and operations aboard the orbiting laboratory. While tethered to the ISS, McClain and Ayers will also conduct upgrades to the existing power systems.
Historic All-Female Spacewalks
This spacewalk marks another milestone for women in space. While not the first all-female EVA, these events are still relatively rare. The first all-female spacewalk took place in October 2019, after facing delays due to spacesuit fitting issues. Astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir made history with their EVA, paving the way for future all-female crews. Earlier this year, astronaut Suni Williams set a new record for total spacewalking time for women, accumulating over 62 hours.
Astronaut Experience
This EVA will be Nichole Ayers’ first spacewalk, a significant step in her career. Anne McClain, a veteran astronaut, will be undertaking her third spacewalk. Their combined expertise ensures a successful and efficient operation.
Conclusion
This spacewalk represents essential maintenance and upgrades for the ISS, preparing the station for increased power demands in the future. The all-female crew continues the legacy of women contributing to space exploration. The live broadcast provides a unique opportunity to witness this significant event.
