What's Happening?
The crew of Expedition 74 is preparing for the first spacewalk of 2026, scheduled for Thursday, to install new roll-out solar arrays on the International Space Station (ISS). NASA astronauts Mike Fincke and Zena Cardman will conduct the spacewalk, exiting
the Quest airlock to install a modification kit and route cables on the station's port side truss structure. The spacewalk will also involve installing jumper cables, photographing hardware, and collecting microorganism samples. The crew, including JAXA astronaut Kimiya Yui, is conducting spacesuit checks and reviewing procedures with mission controllers.
Why It's Important?
This spacewalk is crucial for maintaining and upgrading the ISS's power systems, ensuring the station's continued operation and support for scientific research. The installation of new solar arrays will enhance the station's energy capacity, supporting ongoing and future missions. The collaboration between NASA and international partners like JAXA highlights the importance of global cooperation in space exploration. The successful execution of this mission will contribute to the sustainability of the ISS as a platform for scientific discovery and international collaboration.
