ISS hosts first spacewalk by a Frenchwoman

On Tuesday, French astronaut Sophie Adenot made history by becoming the first female astronaut from France to conduct a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS), alongside American astronaut Anil Menon. The six-and-a-half hour mission aimed to replace a faulty antenna, crucial for the ISS's communication with mission control in Houston.

Adenot, 44, expressed feeling "very good" after exiting the ISS, stating, "I out." Although they successfully removed the malfunctioning antenna, they were unable to replace it due to time limitations.

Adenot became the second European woman to carry out a spacewalk, following Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti's mission in 2022. The successful spacewalk was celebrated as a source of French pride by President Emmanuel Macron, garnering widespread praise from fellow countrymen. During the spacewalk, Adenot and Menon chatted and laughed, as captured in NASA footage.

French flight engineer Jack Hathaway and station commander Jessica Meir remained inside the ISS, monitoring the duo and operating a robotic arm to assist with the antenna repair.

In the days leading up to the mission, Adenot meticulously prepared by reviewing her spacesuit, tools, and safety procedures. She reflected on the importance of extensive preparation, stating, "A successful (space walk) starts long before the hatch opens." Adenot, an engineer by training and a former test pilot, became the second Frenchwoman in history to fly into space in February, following fellow pioneer Claudie Haignere.

The last French individual to walk in space was Thomas Pesquet, who accomplished six spacewalks during two stays aboard the ISS.