Spacewalk Preparations and Science Research Conclude Eventful Week on ISS
Spacewalk Preparations and Science
With the end of the week aboard the International Space Station approaching, the Expedition 72 crew is busy with spacewalk preparations, conducting outstanding scientific research, and making groundbreaking discoveries. The confluence of these activities typifies the nature of the ISS as a key research facility where humanity is pushed forward in exploring and mastering the space frontier.
Preparation for Future Spacewalks: A Delicate Combination of Maintenance and Science Exploration
Scheduled are two spacewalks on 16 January and 23 January with goals of sustaining important systems as well as seeking to explore the newly opened frontiers of scientific studies.
January 16: Upgrades and Repairs
Space agency NASA's astronauts Nick Hague and Suni Williams will conduct a six-and-a-half-hour-long extravehicular activity to attend to a string of high-priority tasks that includes
- The NICER Telescope repair: This X-ray telescope on neutron stars requires a light leak repair for proper operation.
- AMS: Preparing for the future AMS is a primary instrument to explore cosmic rays and dark matter and its preparation for the next upgrades.
- Replacing Navigation Equipment: The astronauts will replace hardware related to the station's orienting and navigation systems, keeping ISS on course.
Inside the station, NASA Flight Engineers Don Pettit and Butch Wilmore will be key internal support resources, working closely with ground engineers to monitor the spacewalk's progress.
January 23: Antenna and Microbial Investigations
Work on the second January 23 excursion includes:
- Replace an antenna: assembly in order to increase the communication capacity of the station.
- Search for microbial life outside the station; that is to say, try to understand the survival mechanisms for microorganisms on the outside of the station given the extreme space environment.
- Examine the Canadarm2: for signs of wear or damage.
Both the spacewalks are planned to start at 7 a.m. EST; meanwhile, NASA+ will offer live coverage beginning from 5:30 a.m. EST. With this plan, spectators will have the chance to see the two most critical operations live.
Scientific Research Improvement
Aside from the necessary preparations for a spacewalk, the crew actively participates in scientific experiments that address challenges for prolonged space exploration and help improve life on Earth.
Microalgae Research
Nick Hague has been processing microalgae samples in a study aimed at determining whether they can be used as a sustainable resource for space missions. Microalgae can produce food and oxygen, making them a valuable asset for life support systems aboard spacecraft and planetary habitats.
Fluorescence Biology Microscope
Commander Suni Williams has been examining components of a fluorescence biology microscope, a tool designed to study cellular and molecular processes in microgravity. This research could yield insights into how biological systems adapt to space conditions.
Cosmonaut Contributions
Cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner have been conducting research on the effects of microgravity on vision and spatial orientation in the Russian segment of the ISS. This is crucial for understanding and mitigating the physiological changes astronauts experience during extended missions. Flight Engineer Aleksandr Gorbunov has also been inspecting navigation and piloting equipment to ensure the Russian segment remains fully operational.
Maintaining the ISS: A Team Effort
Maintenance activities are a routine part of life on the ISS, keeping the station a safe and functional place for its crew. This week, flight engineers Don Pettit and Butch Wilmore focused on servicing electronics, plumbing, and life support systems. Their efforts are crucial to the continued success of the station's missions.
Importance of Spacewalks and Research
The upcoming spacewalks and all the research activity going on in orbit highlight the collective nature of this space exploration work. Astronauts, cosmonauts, and the ground teams perform their tasks smoothly to push ahead the boundaries for what humanity could achieve. They not only ensure the success of the current mission but also the future ones—including lunar and Martian exploration as well.
For instance, the search for microbial life on the exterior of the ISS can provide valuable data for astrobiology that may give a clue about life beyond Earth. Meanwhile, humanity continues to benefit from the station's technological and scientific advancements, such as improved medical treatments and sustainable resource management.
Looking Ahead
The Expedition 72 crew completes another productive week of work. Their value emphasizes the ISS's significance as a platform for the sciences and technological innovation. Upcoming spacewalks and research activities are evidence of man's ingenuity and resilience to make life brighter off and on Earth.
Stay tuned to NASA+ for live coverage of the spacewalks and updates on the ISS's groundbreaking activities.
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Golu Kumar
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