US astronaut takes first spacewalk after seven months stuck in orbit
GuardianJAN 16
Stranded NASA Astronaut Steps Out for Spacewalk
Above: During her eighth spacewalk, Sunita Williams replaces a planar reflector near the SpaceX Dragon crew spacecraft docked to the Harmony module’s space-facing port. Image copyright: NASA
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This is a significant achievement in the maintenance of crucial space station operations and scientific equipment. The experienced crew showcased exceptional skill in completing complex repairs to the NICER telescope and other vital systems. This mission highlights NASA's ability to adapt and overcome technical challenges while maintaining space station operations.
Establishment-critical narrative
The astronauts' extended stay on the ISS due to Starliner's technical problems raises serious concerns about spacecraft reliability and crew scheduling. Multiple system failures, including thruster malfunctions and helium leaks, have resulted in an unplanned ten-month mission that strains resources and impacts future mission planning.