From Space · · 1m 20s
Astronauts Finish ISS Solar Arrays
Spacewalkers complete final ISS solar array deployment for station's power upgrade.
In brief
Spacewalkers complete final ISS solar array deployment for station's power upgrade. NASA astronauts installed the eighth and final ISS solar array on Nov 5, 2026, boosting power output by 30% for the station's 26-year mission. Originally reported by Space.
Final Solar Array Installation
NASA astronauts completed the eighth and final ISS Roll-Out Solar Array on Nov 5, 2026.
Spacewalk Details
The 6-hour-and-59-minute spacewalk began at 8:36 a.m. EST and ended at 3:35 p.m. EST.
Team Members
NASA astronaut Anil Menon and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk performed the installation.
Deployment Process
The team retrieved the 750-pound iROSA assembly from a temporary stowage platform and mounted it using Canadarm2.
Power Issue
NASA astronaut Nichole Stilwell reported half the expected shunt current during the deployment process.
Resolution
The astronauts waited for the station to enter Earth's shadow to inspect connectors and resolve the issue.
Successful Deployment
The array unfurled to its full 63-foot length without motor assistance in about 10 minutes.
Power Benefits
The new arrays provide 40% more power and half the size of previous arrays for the station's 26-year mission.
Mission Context
The deployment supports the ISS through its retirement and controlled deorbit scheduled for late 2030.
The takeaway
NASA astronauts installed the eighth and final ISS solar array on Nov 5, 2026, boosting power output by 30% for the station's 26-year mission.
