ISS Crew Conducts Spacewalk for Solar Array Upgrades
Summary: On July 27, 2026, ISS astronauts conducted a spacewalk to install new roll-out solar arrays, with logistics supported by the recently docked Crew Dragon capsule.
On July 27, 2026, two International Space Station astronauts carried out an extravehicular activity (EVA) to install a new International Roll-Out Solar Array (iROSA) on the station's truss structure. The spacewalk is part of an ongoing power system upgrade program designed to replace the station's aging early-generation rigid solar wings and boost overall power generation capacity.
According to SpaceNews, logistics support for the spacewalk was provided by a Crew Dragon capsule that recently docked with the ISS. The Crew Dragon not only serves crew rotation duties but also delivered critical equipment and supplies to the station, including components of the new solar arrays. The new iROSA panels use a roll-out design and are mounted in front of the existing solar wings, expected to increase the station's power output by approximately 20 to 30 percent.
Since the ISS began operations, its power system has been in service for over two decades, and some of the original solar panels have experienced performance degradation. Beginning in 2021, NASA and its partners have been progressively deploying iROSA units aboard the station, and this latest installation further extends the upgrade coverage. Reportedly, the astronauts completed key steps including mechanical attachment and electrical connections during the spacewalk, which lasted several hours.
This spacewalk underscores the continued routine maintenance and upgrade efforts aboard the International Space Station and provides valuable extravehicular operational experience in preparation for future deep-space exploration missions.