What's Happening?
NASA is gearing up for the first spacewalk of 2026, involving two astronauts from Expedition 74 aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Station Commander Mike Fincke and Flight Engineer Zena Cardman
are set to exit the ISS to perform power upgrade tasks, including installing a modification kit and routing cables for a future roll-out solar array. The spacewalk is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. EST on Thursday, with live coverage starting at 6:30 a.m. on NASA+, Amazon Prime, and YouTube. Preparations included organizing tools, configuring spacesuits, and reviewing procedures with mission controllers. Additional research activities on the ISS involve physics, microbiology, and artificial intelligence, with contributions from NASA and JAXA engineers.
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 efficiency, supporting future missions and experiments. The involvement of international partners like JAXA highlights the collaborative nature of space exploration. The research conducted aboard the ISS, such as cryogenic fluid preservation and microbe disinfection, has potential applications for spacecraft design and public health on Earth. The mission underscores the importance of international cooperation in advancing space technology and scientific discovery.
What's Next?
Following the spacewalk, the ISS crew will continue with their scheduled research and maintenance activities. The successful installation of the solar array modification kit will pave the way for future upgrades, enhancing the station's capabilities. The ongoing research in physics and microbiology will contribute to advancements in space technology and health sciences. The collaboration between NASA and international partners is expected to continue, with future missions and experiments planned to further explore and utilize space for scientific and technological advancements.
