The International Space Station (ISS) serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory, where scientific research is conducted in astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, and other fields. On April 8, 2019, during Expedition 59, astronauts Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency conducted a spacewalk to enhance the station's capabilities. The following day, April 9, 2019, the crew focused on post-spacewalk medical evaluations and continued scientific research aboard the ISS.

Post-Spacewalk Medical Evaluations

After completing their spacewalk on April 8, McClain and Saint-Jacques underwent standard post-spacewalk medical checkups on April 9. These evaluations are essential to ensure the astronauts' health and safety following extravehicular activities (EVAs). The medical assessments included:

  • Temperature Measurement: Monitoring body temperature to detect any signs of stress or illness.
  • Blood Pressure Monitoring: Ensuring cardiovascular stability after the physical exertion of a spacewalk.
  • Respiration Assessment: Evaluating breathing patterns to identify any respiratory issues.
  • Ear Examination: Checking for any ear-related problems that might have arisen during the EVA.

Following these evaluations, Flight Engineer Nick Hague performed an eye scan using an ultrasound device to assess the astronauts' ocular health. This procedure is part of ongoing research to understand the effects of long-duration spaceflight on vision and eye health. Additionally, McClain, Saint-Jacques, and fellow astronaut Christina Koch participated in a video debrief session with mission specialists on the ground. This session allowed the crew to discuss their experiences, share insights, and provide feedback to inform the planning of future spacewalks. Such debriefs are crucial for continuous improvement in mission planning and execution.

Scientific Research and Preparations for Cargo Deliveries

With the completion of the spacewalk and medical evaluations, the crew shifted their focus to ongoing scientific research and preparations for upcoming cargo deliveries. Key activities included:

  • Combustion Research: Christina Koch worked on maintenance tasks inside the Combustion Integrated Rack, a facility that enables safe investigations of microgravity's impacts on solid and gaseous fuel combustion. This research is vital for understanding combustion processes in space, which has implications for both space exploration and terrestrial applications.
  • Cerebral Autoregulation Study: Nick Hague conducted experiments to explore how blood flows to the brain in microgravity. Using Doppler technology to measure blood flow waveforms, this study aims to help doctors understand and treat space-induced lightheadedness, a common issue among astronauts during long-duration missions.

These research activities are part of the ISS's broader mission to advance our understanding of various scientific phenomena in the unique environment of space. The data collected contributes to advancements in medicine, engineering, and other fields, benefiting both space exploration and life on Earth.

Upcoming Cargo Missions

In addition to their scientific endeavors, the crew prepared for the arrival of two resupply spacecraft. These missions are essential for replenishing the ISS with supplies, equipment, and scientific experiments. The upcoming missions included:

  • Northrop Grumman's Cygnus Cargo Craft: Scheduled to launch on April 17, 2019, this mission aimed to deliver science and supplies to the ISS. The Cygnus spacecraft was expected to remain attached to the station's Unity module for a three-month mission, providing ample time for unloading and conducting experiments.
  • SpaceX's Dragon Cargo Craft: Targeted for launch at the end of April 2019, this mission was set to deliver additional supplies and experiments. The Dragon spacecraft was planned to dock with the station's Harmony module for a month-long stay, further supporting the crew's research and operational needs.

These resupply missions are part of NASA's Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) program, which collaborates with private companies to ensure a continuous flow of necessary materials to the ISS. The CRS program has been instrumental in maintaining the station's operations and supporting its scientific objectives.

Conclusion

The period following the spacewalk on April 8, 2019, was marked by comprehensive medical evaluations and a continued commitment to scientific research aboard the ISS. The crew's activities not only ensured their health and readiness for future missions but also contributed to the broader goals of the ISS program. Through meticulous planning, execution, and collaboration with mission specialists on the ground, the crew maintained the station's operational excellence and advanced our understanding of space and its effects on the human body.

Sources

  • NASA — Post-Spacewalk Checkups and Space Research Before U.S. Cargo Deliveries —
  • NASA — International Space Station Spacewalks —
  • NASA — SpaceX Cargo Craft Attached to Station —
  • NASA — SpaceX Dragon Heads to Space Station After Successful Launch —
  • NASA — NASA Astronauts Hague, Koch Arrive Safely at Space Station —