NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams are conducting the first U.S. spacewalk of 2026 today, Wednesday, March 18. The spacewalk began around 8:00 a.m. EDT and will last about six and a half hours. Viewers can watch the live coverage on NASA+, Amazon Prime, and YouTube.The mission focuses on critical upgrades to the International Space Station's power system.[nasa+10]
Key Mission Details
Meir and Williams exited the International Space Station's Quest airlock this morning.Their primary task is to prepare the 2A power channel for a future International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array (IROSA) installation.These new solar arrays are vital for ensuring the station has enough power for ongoing experiments and future missions.The astronauts are installing a modification kit and routing necessary cables to support the upcoming solar array deployment.[nasa+14]
This spacewalk, officially designated U.S. spacewalk 94, is the 278th spacewalk in support of the space station's assembly, maintenance, and upgrades.It also marks the first spacewalk for Expedition 74, the current crew aboard the orbiting laboratory.[nasa+5]
Astronauts in Action
For Jessica Meir, this is her fourth career spacewalk.She previously made history during an all-female spacewalk in 2019-2020.Chris Williams is undertaking his first spacewalk today.Both astronauts have undergone extensive training for these complex operations in the vacuum of space.[nasa+7]
NASA's live coverage of the event began at 6:30 a.m. EDT, offering pre-spacewalk preparations and real-time updates.The spacewalk itself is expected to conclude in the early afternoon.[nasa+6]
How to Watch Live
Space enthusiasts worldwide can follow the spacewalk live across several platforms. NASA+ is offering continuous live and original programming.The mission is also streaming on Amazon Prime and NASA's official YouTube channel.Additionally, the NASA app and the agency's website provide direct access to the live feed.Space.com is also re-streaming NASA's coverage for interested viewers.[nasa+12]
This comprehensive coverage allows anyone with an internet connection to witness the challenging work astronauts perform to maintain and enhance the International Space Station. The ability to watch these intricate operations live underscores NASA's commitment to transparency and public engagement in space exploration.
Spacewalk Resumes After Medical Delay
Today's spacewalk was originally scheduled for January 8, 2026.However, NASA postponed the mission due to a medical concern with an unidentified crew member.That astronaut was later identified as Mike Fincke.The medical issue led to the early departure of the SpaceX Crew-11 mission on January 15, marking the first medical evacuation in the International Space Station's history.NASA stated that Fincke is doing well, but the incident forced a delay in planned external maintenance work.[space+12]
The last U.S. spacewalk before this one occurred on May 1, 2025.During that mission, NASA astronaut Anne McClain worked to upgrade the station's power system and relocate a communications antenna.This makes today's event the first U.S. spacewalk in over 10 months, highlighting its significance after the unexpected delay.[nasa+1]
Importance of Station Maintenance
Spacewalks, also known as Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), are crucial for the International Space Station's continued operation. Astronauts perform vital tasks that cannot be done from inside the station. These tasks include repairing equipment, installing new components, and upgrading existing systems. The IROSA installations, for example, are essential for boosting the station's power generation capacity.This increased power supports scientific research and helps prepare for future human spaceflight missions.[newsweek+2]
Astronauts also gain valuable experience in assembly and problem-solving during these spacewalks. This experience is critical for planning future missions, including those to the Moon and Mars. Spacewalks are a fundamental part of maintaining a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit.
What Comes Next
NASA plans a second spacewalk, U.S. spacewalk 95, in the near future.This second mission will prepare the station's 3B power channel for another IROSA installation.NASA will announce the specific date, time, and astronauts for spacewalk 95 following the completion of today's EVA.[nasa+7]
These two spacewalks are part of a larger effort to ensure the International Space Station remains a fully functional laboratory for many years to come. The upgrades will enhance the station's capabilities and extend its operational life.
Today's spacewalk by Jessica Meir and Chris Williams is a critical step in maintaining the International Space Station's power infrastructure. It demonstrates the resilience of human spaceflight operations following an unforeseen medical event.
