News Update on Upcoming Space Station Spacewalks

TL;DR

NASA provides a briefing on two upcoming spacewalks scheduled for February 28th and March 5th, which will focus on installing new solar arrays and performing maintenance on the International Space Station.

Transcript

you're watching nasa tv good afternoon i'm nasa's gary jordan thank you for joining us remotely to preview a set of upcoming spacewalks scheduled for sunday february 28th and friday march 5th aboard the international space station they will be the 235th and 236th spacewalks in support of international space station assembly maintenance and upgrades... Read More

Key Insights

• 👶 The upcoming spacewalks will focus on installing structure for new solar arrays, performing maintenance on ammonia servicing equipment, and completing other upgrades on the ISS.
• ✊ The new solar arrays will increase the power capacity of the ISS, providing more power for current and future missions.
• 😣 The spacewalks are scheduled on Sundays to allow for flexibility in the timeline and provide rest time for the crew.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main objective of the upcoming spacewalks?

The main objectives include installing structure for new solar arrays, performing maintenance on ammonia servicing equipment, replacing a failed wireless video system transceiver assembly, and routing ethernet cables.

Q: Will the new solar arrays increase the power capacity of the International Space Station?

Yes, the new solar arrays are expected to increase the power capacity from about 160 kilowatts to about 215 kilowatts, providing more power for current and future missions.

Q: Why are the spacewalks scheduled on Sundays?

Scheduling spacewalks on Sundays allows for flexibility in the timeline and does not restrict operations to weekdays. It also provides additional time for the crew to rest and recover before and after the spacewalks.

Q: What tools will the astronauts use during the spacewalks?

The astronauts will use pistol grip tools, which are cordless drills with digital readouts for torques and turns on bolts. They will also use a vent tool and vent tool extender for venting ammonia jumpers and routing Ethernet cables.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• NASA astronauts Kate Rubins and Victor Glover will conduct the first spacewalk, focusing on installing structure for new solar arrays and performing maintenance on ammonia servicing equipment.

• The second spacewalk, led by Rubins, will complete the installation of the new solar array structure and perform tasks such as replacing a failed wireless video system transceiver assembly and routing ethernet cables.

• The EVAs are part of efforts to upgrade the ISS and prepare for the arrival of new solar arrays later this year.