Astronauts successfully install new solar array during spacewalk outside space station.

Astronauts Steve Bowen and Woody Hoburg conducted a spacewalk to install and unroll an upgraded solar array wing delivered to the International Space Station by a SpaceX Cargo Dragon supply ship. The new solar array will produce electricity for the space station’s 1A power channel. The astronauts will connect a “Y” cable to allow power from both the original solar array and the new iROSA to flow into the station’s power grid. NASA is planning to order a final pair of roll-out solar arrays to complete the space station’s electrical upgrade, which will ensure the lab has enough power to support research through the station’s planned retirement date in 2030.