Full Breakdown
NASA Astronauts Conduct Spacewalks to Prepare for Solar Array Installation
3/19/2026, 2:49:41 PM
Overview of the Spacewalks
On March 18, 2026, NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams conducted a significant spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) to prepare for the installation of new solar arrays. This event marked U.S. spacewalk 94 and was the first of two planned spacewalks aimed at enhancing the station's power capabilities. The spacewalk began at approximately 8:52 a.m. EDT and lasted for over seven hours, concluding at 3:54 p.m. EDT.
Background and Context
Originally scheduled for January 2026, these spacewalks were delayed due to a medical evacuation involving a member of SpaceX's Crew-11 mission. The astronaut, Mike Fincke, experienced an undisclosed medical issue, leading to an early return to Earth. This incident was notable as it marked the first medical evacuation in the ISS's history. The subsequent adjustments to the schedule allowed for the current spacewalks to take place.
Key Activities During the Spacewalk
During the spacewalk, Meir and Williams focused on preparing the 2A power channel for the installation of an International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array (iROSA). They successfully assembled and attached a bracket structure that will support the new solar panel, which is expected to increase the ISS's electricity supply by 20% to 30%. The iROSA technology, which has been in development since 2021, is designed to enhance the station's power generation capabilities as the original solar arrays have surpassed their 15-year service life.
Official Statements & Responses
NASA officials highlighted the importance of these spacewalks in supporting the ISS's ongoing operations and future commercial activities. The agency plans to conduct a second spacewalk (U.S. spacewalk 95) to prepare the 3B power channel for another iROSA installation, with details to be announced following the completion of the first spacewalk.
Criticism & Opposition
While the spacewalks were largely viewed as a success, some critics have raised concerns regarding the delays and the implications of the medical evacuation on crew safety. The incident has prompted discussions about the health protocols in place for astronauts during missions.
Verbatim Quotes
“Today, March 18, is exactly 61 years since Alexei Leonov became the very first human to step out boldly into the vacuum and blackness of space.” — Jessica Meir, NASA Astronaut
“I can report that my fourth spacewalk feels even more special than my previous ones. That is because I shared the experience with first-time spacewalker Chris Williams. It is a tremendous experience to pass the torch to the next generation of explorers who will keep this space station running,” — Jessica Meir, NASA Astronaut
“It was a lot of work and a lot of fun,” — Chris Williams, NASA Astronaut
What's Next
Following the successful completion of U.S. spacewalk 94, NASA is set to announce the date and crew for the upcoming U.S. spacewalk 95, which will further enhance the ISS's power capabilities. These activities are part of NASA's broader strategy to transition from the ISS to commercially operated space stations in the future.
