Sophie Adenot is preparing for her first excursion into open space: together with NASA astronaut Anil Menon, she will carry out a U.S. spacewalk at the International Space Station (ISS) to replace a space‑to‑ground antenna. ESA’s live coverage begins at 13:00 CEST; the exit is scheduled for around 14:35 CEST.
The antenna is a central element of onboard communications. It carries high‑speed data and voice links between the ISS and the control centers, in particular Mission Control in Houston. Interruptions at this point would disrupt workflows and the transmission of scientific measurements, which is why mission management prioritizes repairs that directly affect operations and research.
During the operation Adenot and Menon will work as a team: one astronaut removes the faulty component while the other holds, aligns and connects the replacement. Ground engineers in Houston, supported by teams in Europe and other partner centers, provide step‑by‑step instructions and monitor measurements in real time.
For Adenot the activity marks a milestone in her career as an astronaut and highlights the close international cooperation on the station. Spacewalks demand precision, physical fitness and strict adherence to procedures.
The ISS uses a network of different radio systems: continuous telemetry, broadband video and data links, and redundant paths for fault tolerance. If one antenna fails, available bandwidth is reduced; rerouting via other systems is possible but comes with limitations. A timely replacement restores full capability.
Safety is paramount in all work. Spacesuits have redundant life‑support systems, tools are secured against loss, and electrical connections are checked before being made. Every movement outside the station is documented and monitored.
After returning to the airlock, functional checks follow. the on‑board crew and ground stations will observe system data over several orbits and confirm the expected performance. If the replacement proceeds as planned, full communications capacity and regular data transfers will be restored.
ESA will broadcast the operation live on its WebTV channels and on YouTube, with coverage of the preparations, the work on the station’s exterior and the astronauts’ return.