NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O'Hara made history in an all-female spacewalk outside the International Space Station, achieving a significant milestone in space exploration. (NASA)

NASA Astronauts Make History with Spectacular Spacewalk Outside International Space Station

NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara made history by becoming the second-ever all-female astronaut team to conduct an Extravehicular Activity (EVA) during their first-ever spacewalk. This significant milestone occurred on November 1 outside the International Space Station (ISS).

Key objectives

The mission’s primary objectives were to remove radio communications equipment and replace necessary hardware to improve solar arrays’ ability to track the sun in orbit. The original plan was for Moghbeli to install the footrest on the Canadarm 2 robotic arm, but this task was postponed to a future EVA. Mission Control told him to manually navigate to the site, Space.com reported.

Meanwhile, O’Hara reinstalled the equipment over the Solar Alpha Rotary Joint (SARJ) race ring, performed tool maintenance, and performed an advanced mission related to crew equipment and the translation assistance cart (CETA), setting the stage for future radio work. Frequency Group (RFG).

Expedition 70

During her spacewalk, Moghbeli also linked images from spacewalk cameras, examined spacesuit gloves for inspection, and Ms. O’Hara participated in a cognitive assessment on a computer. Towards the end of their 6 hour and 42 minute attempt, O’Hara reported a slight problem with his comm, but it didn’t block his vision.

After the missions were completed, both astronauts returned to Quest’s airlock. The EVA concluded when the airlock was repressurized at 14:47. EDT. Inside the airlock, Moghbeli shared his thoughts, calling the experience “a very special moment” and expressing his admiration for O’Hara. O’Hara echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of their mission.

Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral O’Hara are part of Expedition 70, which launched on September 27, 2023. This expedition will focus on various microgravity studies aimed at improving life on Earth and in space. Their research spans areas such as heart health, cancer treatments, space manufacturing technologies, and more.

This historic spacewalk marked the 269th EVA to support assembly, maintenance and upgrades of the International Space Station. It was the 12th ISS spacewalk of the year and the second during Expedition 70. Moghbel and O’Hara’s achievement continues to inspire generations to come and underscores NASA’s dedication to diversity and exploration.