NASA astronaut Sunita Williams steps outside spacecraft after 7 months for her first spacewalk in 12 years

The new planar reflector is positioned near the @SpaceX Dragon crew spacecraft docked to the Harmony module's space-facing port where @Astro_Suni was working. (Image: NASA)

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Nick Hague stepped outside the ISS today for a crucial mission. This marks Williams’ eighth spacewalk and Hague’s fourth. The duo embarked on essential repairs, underlining their expertise and dedication.

The rate gyro assembly that helps maintain station orientation has been replaced. @AstroHague will soon work on the NICER X-ray telescope while @Astro_Suni will replace navigation hardware. pic.twitter.com/EfqNDF8ZAI
International Space Station (@Space_Station) January 16, 2025

A Mission Seven Months in the Making
Williams and Hague ventured outside the International Space Station (ISS) today, 16 January 2025. This mission, designated US Spacewalk 91, is Williams' first spacewalk in 12 years. Hague, meanwhile, added his fourth to an already impressive record.

The pair began the six-and-a-half-hour operation to repair critical systems. Tasks included maintaining equipment for station orientation and upgrading the NICER telescope. They also replaced a reflector on a docking adapter and prepared tools for future ISS work.

Williams, an experienced astronaut, expressed enthusiasm as she exited the station. "I'm coming out," she radioed, marking her re-emergence into spacewalking duties.

This view from @Astro_Suni's helmet camera shows her turning bolts as she replaces the planar reflector, a visiting vehicles navigation device, over 260 miles above the South Pacific Ocean. pic.twitter.com/DiUJ3P8i98 International Space Station (@Space_Station) January 16, 2025

Delays and Challenges Extend Their Stay
Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore were due back in June 2024. Their week-long mission aboard Boeing's Starliner turned into a long stay. Technical issues with the spacecraft delayed their return to Earth.

NASA has since rescheduled their journey for March or April. Safety concerns with SpaceX’s Crew-10 mission have further postponed plans. Despite this, the astronauts have adapted to life aboard the ISS.

NASA’s Flight Director, Nicole McElroy, praised their preparations for spacewalks. “The crew has studied tasks and is fully ready,” McElroy shared.

Second Spacewalk Scheduled for January 23
Williams will conduct another spacewalk alongside Wilmore next week. Key tasks will include removing an antenna assembly and collecting surface samples. These samples will help study microorganisms on the station’s exterior.

The duo will also prepare a spare elbow joint for the Canadarm2 robotic arm. NASA has described these activities as essential for station upkeep. Each spacewalk is expected to last six and a half hours.

Williams’ experience continues to shine in these demanding missions. Her contributions highlight the resilience and skill needed for space exploration.