ISS Crew Deploys Final Roll-Out Solar Array
Joshua Kutryk and Anil Menon installed and deployed the International Space Station's eighth roll-out solar array on November 5, completing the array installation campaign.
FlyMarshall Newsroom1 min read
Photo: Spaceflight Now
Astronauts Joshua Kutryk and Anil Menon installed and deployed the International Space Station’s eighth and final roll-out solar array during a spacewalk on November 5, 2026. The work completes an effort that began with the first array’s deployment in June 2021.
Key details
- The spacewalk began at 8:36 a.m. EST and ended at 3:35 p.m. EST.
- NASA estimates that all eight roll-out arrays can increase the station’s available power by up to 30 percent.
- Each new array generates about 8 kilowatts. The station’s original solar wings generated about 19 kilowatts apiece when new.
- The final pair of arrays launched to the station on October 13, 2026.
The spacewalk lasted 6 hours and 59 minutes.
Why it matters
The arrays supplement the station’s original solar wings, helping provide electrical power for station systems and research. NASA plans to operate the station through its retirement in 2030 before carrying out a controlled deorbit.
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