Live Coverage of Roscosmos Cosmonauts’ Spacewalk from the International Space Station
NASA has announced that it will broadcast live coverage of an upcoming spacewalk conducted by two Russian cosmonauts from the International Space Station (ISS). This event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 19, and will be available for viewing on various platforms, including NASA’s own streaming service, NASA+. The live coverage is set to begin at 9:45 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST), with the spacewalk itself anticipated to commence around 10:10 a.m., lasting approximately six and a half hours.
The Mission Details
The spacewalk will see Expedition 72 crew members, Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner, stepping outside the ISS from its Poisk module. Their primary tasks include the installation of a new experiment package designed to observe celestial X-ray sources. Additionally, they will be tasked with the installation of new electrical connector patch panels and the removal of several experiments that are no longer needed, which will be disposed of accordingly.
Moreover, the cosmonauts will work on relocating a control panel crucial for the operation of the European robotic arm, which is attached to the Nauka multipurpose laboratory module. This robotic arm is an essential tool for conducting various operations outside the ISS. During the spacewalk, fellow Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexsandr Gorbunov will be responsible for operating the robotic arm from inside the station, ensuring that all tasks are carried out smoothly and efficiently.
A Milestone for the Cosmonauts
This event, known as Roscosmos Spacewalk 63, marks a significant milestone for both cosmonauts involved. It will be the second spacewalk for Alexey Ovchinin, an experienced member of the team, whereas Ivan Vagner will be embarking on his first spacewalk. To distinguish them during the operation, Ovchinin will don an Orlan spacesuit with red stripes, while Vagner will wear one with blue stripes.
The Importance of Spacewalks
Spacewalks, also known as extravehicular activities (EVAs), are critical for the ongoing maintenance, assembly, and enhancement of the International Space Station. Since the ISS serves as a pivotal hub for scientific research and international cooperation in space, these spacewalks help ensure that all systems are functioning optimally and that the station remains a safe and productive environment for its crew. The upcoming spacewalk will be the 272nd such activity conducted in support of the ISS, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade this remarkable feat of engineering and collaboration.
How to Follow the Mission
For those interested in following the mission, NASA provides several avenues to stay updated. Through their website and social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and X, the space agency shares breaking news, captivating images, and features from the space station. These platforms offer a unique glimpse into life aboard the ISS, as well as insights into the experiments and advancements being made in space exploration.
To learn more about the International Space Station and its various missions, you can visit NASA’s dedicated ISS webpage. This resource offers comprehensive information about the station’s history, its international partnerships, and the science being conducted in orbit.
Understanding the Technical Aspects
For those who may not be familiar with the technical terms used in this mission, here’s a brief explanation. The Poisk module is part of the Russian segment of the ISS, serving as both an airlock for spacewalks and a docking port for spacecraft. Celestial X-ray sources are astronomical objects that emit X-rays, which can provide valuable information about the universe’s structure and behavior. The Orlan spacesuit is a Russian-designed suit specifically for spacewalks, equipped to protect astronauts from the harsh environment of space.
The Role of the European Robotic Arm
The European robotic arm, another focal point of this mission, is a highly versatile tool used for various tasks outside the ISS. It can move equipment, assist astronauts during spacewalks, and carry out inspections of the station’s exterior. The relocation of its control panel is an essential step in ensuring that the arm remains fully operational and can continue to support the diverse range of activities conducted on the ISS.
Reflections and Reactions
The upcoming spacewalk underscores the collaborative nature of space exploration. It highlights the joint efforts of multiple countries working together to advance our understanding of space and develop technologies that benefit life on Earth. Such missions not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The anticipation surrounding this spacewalk reflects the public’s enduring fascination with space and the achievements of astronauts who push the boundaries of what is possible. As the world watches, the dedication and expertise of the ISS crew serve as a testament to the human spirit of exploration and discovery.
In conclusion, the upcoming spacewalk by Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner is a significant event in the ongoing mission of the International Space Station. It represents a blend of advanced technology, international cooperation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge that defines modern space exploration. As we prepare to witness this remarkable event, it serves as a reminder of the incredible achievements that can be made when nations come together to explore the final frontier. For more details and real-time updates, you can visit the official NASA website.
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