The NASA team of engineers, Woody Hoburg and Steve Bowen, have successfully completed a special mission during a spacewalk, which had a significant impact on power generation on the International Space Station (ISS).
The main objective of this mission was to install an IROSA (International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array) system to enhance electricity production on the 1B power channel of the station. The new system of expandable solar panels measures 60 feet (18.2 meters) in length and 20 feet (6 meters) in width. Each IROSA panel produces over 20 kilowatts of electricity, enabling a 30% increase in power production on the station.
This achievement marks the 265th spacewalk conducted in support of the assembly, upgrades, and maintenance of the ISS. Hoburg and Bowen's mission is part of a scientific research program aimed at developing new technologies for future human and robotic exploration missions. Additionally, NASA and Boeing have plans to install a fourth set of solar arrays in 2025 to further enhance the International Space Station's power generation capacity.
This accomplishment represents an important step towards the utilization of sustainable and renewable energy sources in space and on Earth. By expanding the solar power capacity on the ISS, this initiative contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting green technologies. It serves as an inspiration for humanity and a testament to our ability to progress towards an ecologically sustainable future.
Source: NASA