The duo will head out of the Quest airlock to tackle a critical problem that has been disrupting NICER’s observations.
So, what’s the problem? Since May 2023, NICER’s X-ray detectors have been saturated with unwanted sunlight thanks to some damaged thermal shields. The result? Disrupted measurements of neutron stars and their mysterious properties.
Thankfully, NASA engineers have come up with a solution: pie-shaped patches that will block the offending light and restore NICER’s scientific powers.
Two @NASA_Astronauts will venture out of the @Space_Station on Jan. 16 and Jan. 23 to complete station upgrades. Get more details about the upcoming spacewalks from @NASA_Johnson experts in a news conference at 2pm ET (1900 UTC) on Friday, Jan. 10: https://t.co/QKYyrkaIAt pic.twitter.com/CrIBoh6ztv
— NASA (@NASA) January 7, 2025
Not only will this spacewalk fix a key instrument in NASA’s arsenal, but it also marks a historic first—astronauts will be servicing an X-ray telescope in orbit. It’s the first of its kind, following in the footsteps of iconic repairs like the Hubble Space Telescope. The mission is a huge step forward in space exploration, ensuring that NICER can continue to unlock the secrets of neutron stars.
But that’s not all. Along with repairing NICER, Williams and Hague will also be removing outdated radio communication gear and collecting microbial samples from the ISS’s exterior. These additional tasks are part of ongoing research into fire safety in space and the effects of weightlessness on exercise.
NASA has announced that astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will remain in space at least until March 2024, following a delay in the launch of their replacements.
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