Breaking news for space enthusiasts: NASA will provide live coverage of two Roscosmos cosmonauts conducting a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, Dec. 19. The broadcast will begin at 9:45 a.m. EST on NASA+, offering viewers a chance to follow the event on various platforms, including social media.
This spacewalk is part of the ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade the ISS, a key hub for international space exploration and scientific research. Such missions demonstrate the collaborative spirit and advanced technology that drive progress in space exploration.
Spacewalk Schedule and Duration
The spacewalk, officially known as Roscosmos Spacewalk 63, is scheduled to begin at approximately 10:10 a.m. EST. It is expected to last about six and a half hours, during which cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner will carry out critical tasks outside the station. These operations require precision and endurance, making this a significant event in the timeline of ISS maintenance.
Objectives of the Mission
This spacewalk will focus on several vital activities. One of the primary tasks involves the installation of an experiment package to monitor celestial x-ray sources, which is part of an ongoing effort to gather data for astrophysics research. Additionally, the cosmonauts will set up new electrical connector patch panels, which are essential for ensuring the station’s continued functionality.
Other objectives include removing outdated experiments that have completed their operational lifecycle and are now slated for disposal. The cosmonauts will also relocate a control panel for the European robotic arm, which is attached to the Nauka multipurpose laboratory module. These tasks reflect the ISS’s dynamic environment, where constant upgrades are necessary to support its mission.
Role of the European Robotic Arm
While Ovchinin and Vagner perform tasks outside, Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will control the European robotic arm from within the station. This robotic arm is an essential tool for handling equipment and assisting with spacewalk operations. Its precise movements, controlled remotely, allow cosmonauts to focus on tasks that require direct human intervention.
Experience and Preparation of Cosmonauts
This spacewalk will be the second for Alexey Ovchinin, who brings prior experience to the mission. For Ivan Vagner, it marks his first venture outside the ISS, a milestone in his career as a cosmonaut. To distinguish between the two during the spacewalk, Ovchinin will wear an Orlan spacesuit with red stripes, while Vagner’s suit will feature blue stripes. These suits are not only identifiers but also provide life support and protection in the harsh environment of space.
Importance of the Mission
Roscosmos Spacewalk 63 will be the 272nd spacewalk dedicated to ISS assembly, maintenance, and upgrades. These missions are critical for ensuring the station’s continued operation as a platform for international collaboration and scientific discovery. The ISS serves as a unique laboratory where experiments in microgravity contribute to advancements in medicine, materials science, and our understanding of the universe.
Technology News Today: Enhancing ISS Capabilities
The tasks undertaken during this spacewalk are a testament to the role of cutting-edge technology in space exploration. From the robotic arm’s advanced functionality to the x-ray monitoring experiments, every aspect of the mission showcases the progress of human ingenuity in exploring beyond our planet. These upgrades ensure that the ISS remains at the forefront of space research and exploration.
NASA’s Commitment to Transparency
NASA’s decision to provide live coverage underscores its commitment to transparency and public engagement. Events like these inspire a global audience, bringing the excitement and challenges of space exploration into homes worldwide. The live broadcast will include expert commentary to help viewers understand the complexity and significance of the tasks being performed.
Stay with Breaking News
For those eager to follow the action in real-time, NASA+ offers a seamless experience across multiple platforms. This breaking news update is a reminder of how space exploration continues to capture the world’s imagination. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness history as it unfolds.
Looking Ahead
Spacewalks like these are more than maintenance routines; they symbolize humanity’s drive to explore, innovate, and collaborate. Each mission builds on the achievements of previous ones, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With every task completed, the ISS becomes better equipped to fulfill its mission as a beacon of international cooperation and a hub for scientific advancement.
Stay tuned for daily news highlights on NASA+, and follow this groundbreaking mission that brings us closer to unraveling the mysteries of space.
