January tends to pass quietly for most people, but above Earth, it rarely does. The International Space Station keeps moving, orbit after orbit, while small changes continue to shape its future. Early in the year, two planned spacewalks will take place outside the station, part routine work, part long-term preparation. Before any astronaut steps outside, NASA will pause to explain what is coming. A public briefing in Houston will outline the tasks, the risks, and the reasons behind them. It is not a dramatic announcement, more a careful look ahead. For those who follow spaceflight closely, these briefings offer something rare. A chance to see how ordinary maintenance slowly adds up to keeping a complex structure alive in orbit.
When will NASA preview spacewalks and who are the astronauts involved
Officials from the International Space Station programme and flight operations will take part. They will walk through the timeline and answer questions from the media. The tone is expected to be practical rather than promotional.The first spacewalk is planned for January 8. Astronauts Mike Fincke and Zena Cardman will exit the Quest airlock to work on the station’s power system. For Cardman, it will be her first spacewalk. For Fincke, it will be his tenth, placing him among the most experienced spacewalkers NASA has had.The second spacewalk is scheduled for January 15. NASA has not yet confirmed which astronauts will take part. That information is expected closer to the date.The briefing will focus on two spacewalks scheduled for January. NASA experts will explain why the work is needed and how it fits into the station’s wider plans. Topics include power upgrades, equipment replacement, and preparations for future installations.
What work will be done during the spacewalk
During the first spacewalk, the astronauts will prepare a power channel for the future installation of roll-out solar arrays. These arrays are designed to provide extra power to the station as it ages.The second spacewalk will focus on maintenance. Tasks include replacing a high-definition camera, installing a navigation aid for visiting spacecraft, and moving parts of the station’s cooling system. None of these jobs is flashy, but each supports daily operations.
Why are these spacewalks important
The station relies on steady power and reliable systems. Solar arrays degrade over time, and cameras and navigation tools need updates. Some of the work also supports the station’s safe and controlled deorbit in the future.These spacewalks are part of a long sequence. They will be the 278th and 279th spacewalks carried out in support of the station. They are also the first spacewalks of 2026 and the first for Expedition 74.
How can you watch the briefing and spacewalks
NASA will stream the briefing and the spacewalk coverage live. Viewers can watch through several official platforms.You can watch it on:https://www.youtube.com/nasa
https://www.facebook.com/NASA/
https://www.twitch.tv/nasa
https://x.com/nasaCoverage usually includes commentary from mission control and live views from space.