NASA's Latest Spacewalk: Preparing the ISS for Solar Power and Research

Onboard the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams undertook a critical spacewalk—U.S. Spacewalk 94—to enhance orbital operations and push forward scientific research. This operation focused on preparing the station’s solar power systems for future upgrades and investigating whether microorganisms exist on the station’s exterior.

The Spacewalk Participants and Preparation
NASA astronaut Jessica Meir, an experienced spacewalker on her fourth EVA (extravehicular activity), wore a spacesuit with red stripes. Chris Williams, on his first-ever spacewalk, wore an unmarked suit. Meir joined the ISS on February 14, 2026, as part of the SpaceX Crew-12 mission, while Williams has been a crew member since November 2025. Assisting the spacewalk preparations were European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Sophie Adenot and NASA astronaut Jack Hathaway.

As part of their preparatory routine, the astronauts performed in-suit light exercises (ISLE) to purge nitrogen from their bloodstream. This involved cycles of movement and rest designed to enhance their safety during the EVA.

Objectives of U.S. Spacewalk 94

Solar Array Mounting Bracket Installation

A key task of the spacewalk was the installation of a mounting bracket on the ISS's 2A power channel. This modification kit will enable the future attachment of new ISS Roll-Out Solar Arrays (IROS), an essential upgrade set to enhance the station’s energy capacity.

Much of the ISS’s power system has already been modernized in recent years, with upgrades completed on power channels 1A, 1B, 3A, 4B, and 2B. The addition of the 2A bracket brings NASA closer to completing the full power channel upgrade on the station, leaving only one more channel to be addressed.

The astronauts coordinated their tasks meticulously: Meir handled the strut bag containing parts for the bracket, while Williams worked with equipment that allowed for precision installation while in a foot restraint.

Microorganism Sampling Investigation

In an additional task that highlights the ISS's dual role as both engineering marvel and scientific research platform, the crew took samples from external vents and surfaces as part of the ISS External Microorganism Experiment. These samples will provide insights into whether the station releases microorganisms and, if so, how far they travel. Data from the investigation could inform future planetary exploration, especially to destinations where life may exist or have existed, by minimizing contamination risks.

The day’s sampling continued research begun during U.S. Spacewalk 92 in early 2025. For this walk, the astronauts focused on five key surfaces known to interact with life-support systems. The goal is to identify and quantify any microorganisms present.

The Supporting Team and Their Roles

The complex and high-stakes nature of spacewalks relies on support from ground control and the onboard team. Leading the operation was NASA Flight Director Diana Trujillo, with critical coordination handled by Capsule Communicator (Capcom) Scott Higginbotham. Ground IV astronaut Tracy Dyson directly oversaw mission operations.

Onboard the station, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot and NASA astronaut Jack Hathaway played pivotal roles in preparing Meir and Williams. They assisted in configuring the life support systems of the spacesuits, including the installation of metal oxide canisters, designed to filter carbon dioxide during the spacewalk. The duo also handled helmet camera preparations that allowed engineers on Earth to monitor the EVA in real time.

Challenges and Execution

Tool Configuration and Equipment Testing
Before stepping outside, the astronauts carefully reviewed their tools and tethering systems to ensure safety and readiness. They checked the high-definition extravehicular mobility unit (EMU) helmet camera assemblies, which would provide live feeds of their work to both Mission Control and their fellow crew members.

Precision Installation
Installing the 2A bracket required a series of bolt and strut adjustments on the P4 area of the ISS truss, a part of the station’s backbone. Meir focused on securing mid-struts, while Williams worked on foot restraints to access challenging positions.

Scientific Sample Collection
For the microbial investigation, Williams used swabbing tools to collect samples, which he secured into canisters for Earth-bound analysis. The crew took samples from at least five surfaces around vents and the robotic Canadarm2.

The Milestone Significance of U.S. Spacewalk 94

U.S. Spacewalk 94 holds historical and technical relevance as:

1. The 278th ISS spacewalk overall – a testament to the ongoing evolution of the orbiting laboratory’s capabilities.
2. First spacewalk of 2026 – setting the tone for a year of advancements in ISS operations and research.
3. Preparatory work for ISS deorbit strategy – Upgraded power systems will play a role in future controlled deorbit plans for the ISS, ensuring safety.

Looking Ahead: Future Solar Array Upgrades

Once installed, the IROS arrays, part of a decade-long upgrade program, will significantly enhance the station's power efficiency. Built with lightweight, roll-out technology, the new arrays align with NASA’s long-term goals to integrate advanced energy systems into crewed missions in space.

Practical Takeaways

• Fourth Spacewalk for Jessica Meir: Jessica Meir's career total EVA time is now over 21 hours.
• First Spacewalk for Chris Williams: Marking an essential milestone in his NASA career.
• Solar Array Modernization Progress: One of the two remaining power channels of the ISS was prepared for modern arrays.
• Ongoing Microorganism Study: The experiment offers insights critical to planetary protection protocols.

Conclusion

U.S. Spacewalk 94 exemplified the ISS's dual mission of maintaining cutting-edge technology and advancing scientific exploration. The precise execution by astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams not only pushes forward the station’s functionality but also provides data that could shape humanity’s approach to deep-space exploration. With each spacewalk, NASA fortifies its ability to explore beyond low-Earth orbit.