On August 6, 2026, NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Anil Menon performed a six-and-a-half-hour spacewalk to install hardware on the International Space Station. This mission focused on the 3B power channel to prepare for the upcoming Roll-Out Solar Arrays (iROSA) deployment.
The 30% power boost for aging ISS arrays
The International Space Station is currently fighting a battle against aging infrastructure. As reported by the source, the station's original solar arrays have exceeded their 15-year design life, leading to a noticeable decline in power output. To combat this, NASA is implementing the iROSA technology, which is designed to sit forward of existing panels to expand energy generation without requiring their removal.
This incremental upgrade strategy is part of a broader effort to sustain human presence in low-Earth orbit. By adding these new wings,NASA expects to increase the station's total energy supply by an estimated 20 to 30 percent, ensuring the ISS remains operational well into the next decade.
Installing brackets and cabling on the 3B power channel
During the 6-hour and 27-minute mission, Meir and Menon focused on the starboard segment's backbone truss. According to the report, the astronauts assembled a modification kit to attach to the mast canister on power channel 3B . They meticulously bolted together triangular brackets and routed new cabling that will eventually connect the iROSA wings to the station's existing power infrastructure.
To protect these new connections from the extreme temperatures of space, the duo covered the cables with multi-layer insulation. This precision work was supported by a robotic workbench and an articulating portbale foot restraint, which allowed the astronauts to stabilize themselves while working on the truss.
A milestone for Menon and Meir’s sixth EVA
This spacewalk, designated as EVA 96 for the United States, marked a significant personal milestone for both crew members. for Jessica Meir, it was her sixth extravehicular activity, bringing her cumulative time in space during EVAs to 42 hours and 33 minutes.
For Anil Menon, the mission served as his professional debut in spacewalking. As part of the Expedition 75 crew, their successful coordination represents the first EVA conducted by this specific group of astronauts.
What remains for the August 13 antenna replacement?
While the hardware installation is complete, the full integration of the power system remains an ongoing project. The source notes that two additional EVAs are planned for August, with EVA 97 scheduled for August 13 to replace a space-to-ground antenna.
However, several details regarding the full deployment of the iROSA wings themselves remain unconfirmed.. While the mounting hardware is ready, the specific timeline for when the actual solar wings will be unfurled and fully integrated into the 3B power channel has not been publicly detailed. Furthermore, it remains to be seen how the upcoming EVA 98,which focuses on cable and data relay work, will impact the overall schedule for full power system integration.
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