Astronauts Anil Menon and Joshua Kutryk have successfully completed a crucial spacewalk, installing a new solar array that significantly upgrades the International Space Station's (ISS) power capabilities. The 7-hour, 11-minute excursion concluded at 3:08 p.m. EDT.
This latest addition, the seventh International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array (IROSA), was deployed on the station's 2A electrical power channel. These arrays are vital for providing extra electricity needed for the station's ongoing operations and its eventual safe deorbit.
The spacewalk also included preparatory work for an upcoming mission on Thursday, November 5th. This next excursion will see the installation of the eighth and final solar array on the 3B power channel, marking the completion of the ISS's solar power expansion.
Once fully installed, the eight new solar arrays are projected to boost the station's available power by up to 30%, increasing its electricity generation capacity from 160 kilowatts to around 215 kilowatts. This upgrade is a major milestone for supporting future space station operations.
The spacewalk was designated U.S. spacewalk 100, with this mission being Menon's fourth and Kutryk's first. It also represents the 285th spacewalk conducted in the history of the ISS for its assembly, maintenance, and enhancements.
