30 January NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore successfully dismantled a faulty radio communication unit at the International Space Station (ISS). Previous attempts in 2023-2024 years were unsuccessful because of technical difficulties.
Difficult surgery in open space
Astronauts, who arrived at the station on Boeing Starliner ship, Spent 5 hours 26 minutes outside the station. Vilmore worked directly near the device, And Williams moved with a robotic hand canadrm2.
Previous attempts of dismantling were complicated by the inability to weaken the locking bolt. Astronauts have tested several approaches this time, Having made more physical effort, and finally were able to remove the device. After that he was moved to the Quest Gatelace Module, Where will it be sent to the ground for repair.
In addition to the main task, Astronauts took samples of possible microorganisms from the outside of the station - this is the first similar study by NASA, Although Russian astronauts conduct such experiments with 2014 year.
A new record among women
The total time of Williams in open space now is 62 years 6 minutes, exceeding the previous female record in 60 hours 21 a minute, established Peggie Witon in 2017 year.
This exit became fifth for Vilmore (31 year 2 minutes) and nine for Williams, which is now entered in the fours of world leaders in terms of open space work.
The story is ongoing
Entrance 30 January has become 274th as part of the MCC service and modernization since its creation in 1998 year.