ISS to Add 30% More Power via Final Solar Upgrades
Astronauts will complete the installation of final solar arrays over two scheduled spacewalks in October and November 2026.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Space
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NASA has scheduled two spacewalks for October 29 and November 5, 2026, to install the final roll-out solar arrays on the International Space Station. These missions, the 285th and 286th of their kind, aim to boost the station's total electrical power generation by 30 percent.
Why it matters
This power upgrade is critical for maintaining orbital operations and preparing the laboratory for its eventual controlled deorbit. The project ensures the station remains fully powered throughout its final years of service life.
The two final arrays will connect to the 2A and 3B electrical power channels. This expansion increases the station's capacity to 215 kilowatts, a 30% gain over the current 160 kilowatts.
The players
NASA
The United States government agency responsible for the civil space program and operation of the International Space Station.
Anil Menon
A NASA astronaut designated for the upcoming orbital assembly missions.
Joshua Kutryk
A NASA astronaut designated for the upcoming orbital assembly missions.
The details
Astronauts Anil Menon and Joshua Kutryk will perform the installations by exiting through the Quest airlock, a pressurized module used for orbital extravehicular activities. They will deploy the new hardware to integrate with existing electrical infrastructure rather than replacing the station's legacy power system. This approach allows for increased energy output using the station's mature power distribution architecture.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: Astronauts perform the first solar array installation spacewalk.
November 5, 2026: Astronauts perform the second solar array installation spacewalk.
The Tech Race
These installations complete a series of power upgrades designed to extend the utility of the aging laboratory. This project ensures the ISS operates at peak capacity through its final scheduled service years.
The increased power capacity ensures the station can continue conducting active research experiments until the end of its service life. These upgrades enable stable orbital operations for crew members residing and working on the platform.
The takeaway
These spacewalks represent the final phase of power optimization for the station's remaining lifespan. Observers can monitor the mission status and successful array deployment through the official flight log entries published after November 5, 2026.
Further reading
For more on orbital infrastructure, visit the Space section.
Live Poll
Should the U.S. continue to prioritize funding for upgrades to the aging International Space Station?
