Indian-Origin NASA Astronaut Sunita Williams Conducts Ninth Career Spacewalk
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, alongside Butch Wilmore, has embarked on her second spacewalk, focusing on maintenance and scientific experiments aboard the International Space Station.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore Conduct Second Spacewalk
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, along with her colleague Butch Wilmore, has begun their second spacewalk for maintenance and scientific experiments. This marks Williams’ ninth career spacewalk and Wilmore’s fifth.
Key Objectives of the Spacewalk Mission
- Removing Antenna Assembly: The duo will remove a radio frequency group antenna assembly from the station’s truss.
- Collecting Surface Samples: They will gather samples from the Destiny laboratory and Quest airlock to analyze potential microorganisms on the station’s exterior.
- Preparing Robotic Arm Components: The astronauts will prepare a spare elbow joint for the Canadarm2 robotic arm.
Duration and Significance of the Mission
The spacewalk is expected to last approximately six and a half hours. This mission is crucial for maintaining the International Space Station’s functionality and advancing scientific research.
Challenges Faced by Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore
Both astronauts have been in space since June last year due to delays in their return. NASA is working diligently to bring them back safely.
FAQs
1. Who is Sunita Williams?
Sunita Williams is an Indian-origin NASA astronaut conducting her ninth career spacewalk.
2. What is the purpose of the spacewalk?
The spacewalk aims to perform maintenance tasks and collect samples for scientific experiments.
3. How long will the spacewalk last?
The mission is expected to last around six and a half hours.
4. Why are Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore stuck in space?
Their return has been delayed due to technical issues, and NASA is working to bring them back safely.
Conclusion
NASA astronaut Sunita Williams continues to make history with her ninth career spacewalk, contributing to vital maintenance and scientific research.
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