On March 18, 2026, NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams completed a seven-hour spacewalk on the International Space Station (ISS) to prepare for the installation of new roll-out solar arrays, crucial for boosting the station’s power supply.

Meir conducted her fourth spacewalk, while it was Williams’ first, and both were assisted by fellow astronauts Jack Hathaway and Sophie Adenot, who monitored operations from inside the station.

During the walk, the crew secured the 2A power channel and installed hardware needed for the future solar arrays, ensuring the ISS can maintain operations as its existing arrays age.

The mission highlights the combination of human skill, rigorous training, and teamwork required for complex space operations, as well as NASA’s ongoing efforts to modernize the station, the Daily Galaxy has reported.

These enhancements will support continued scientific research, international collaboration, and provide critical experience for future missions beyond low Earth orbit, including the Moon and Mars.