Science

Russian Cosmonauts Make History with Daring Spacewalk to Install X-ray Detector and Clear Space Junk!

2024-12-19

Author: Mei

Russian Cosmonauts Make History with Daring Spacewalk to Install X-ray Detector and Clear Space Junk!

In an extraordinary display of teamwork and ingenuity, Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner embarked on a thrilling seven-hour spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) on December 19. Their primary objective? To install a cutting-edge X-ray detector known as the "All-Sky Monitor" and safely dispose of outdated equipment floating in the vastness of space.

Starting their mission at 10:36 a.m. EST (1536 GMT), the duo opened the hatch of the Poisk mini-research module, equipped with essential tools for their tasks. This historic excursion saw Ovchinin skillfully securing himself at the end of the European Robotic Arm (ERA), manipulated by fellow cosmonaut Alexsandr Gorbunov from the comfort of the ISS.

Witnessing the exhilarating moment, Ovchinin took the opportunity to jettison a bundle of abandoned electronics and experiment materials that included electrical connectors and an experiment boom. "Here it goes, it is floating away," he exclaimed as he cleared the space around the ISS of unwanted debris, ensuring it would safely burn up upon re-entering Earth's atmosphere.

The installation of the All-Sky Monitor was a significant milestone for space research, allowing scientists to conduct near-comprehensive observations of the celestial sphere every 72 days over the next three years. The instrument operates within the X-ray wavelength range, which is crucial for studying high-energy phenomena in our universe.

Not stopping there, the spacewalkers also swapped out four vital electrical connector patch panels on the Zvezda service module. The removal of old components ensured the smooth operation of the station's systems, and this work was crucial for maintaining ISS functionality.

The two cosmonauts didn't merely focus on hardware; they also collected several experimental panels exposed to the complexities of the space environment. These included materials being tested for their endurance and biological samples aimed at understanding how life responds to microgravity. This valuable cargo was later returned inside the ISS to be sent back to Earth via a Soyuz spacecraft for detailed analysis.

Time was of the essence, and to optimize their EVA timeline, Ovchinin and Vagner opted not to relocate an exterior control panel for the European Robotic Arm—an operation that would have facilitated future spacewalks.

After an exhaustive yet rewarding day in space, the expedition concluded at 5:53 p.m. (2253 GMT), marking the 272nd extravehicular activity (EVA) since the ISS assembly began in 1998. For Ovchinin, this was his second spacewalk, contributing to a total of 13 hours and 18 minutes spent in the vacuum of space. Vagner, on the other hand, marked this as his very first EVA, an experience that he will remember for a lifetime.

This impressive feat not only underscores the vital contributions of Russian cosmonauts to the ISS program but also serves as a pivotal chapter in the continuous exploration of space. As the world watches, the future promises even more thrilling advancements, including upcoming EVAs planned for international collaborations and endeavors aimed at deepening our understanding of the final frontier. Stay tuned for updates—who knows what they will discover next?