Avaruuslenkeillä

Avaruuslenkeillä is a Finnish term that translates to "space walks" or "spacewalks" in English. It refers to an astronaut's excursion outside a spacecraft into the vacuum of space. These excursions are critical for various space mission activities.

Spacewalks are primarily undertaken for tasks such as spacecraft maintenance, repair, and assembly. Astronauts may need to fix external equipment, replace components, or install new scientific instruments on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS) or other spacecraft. They can also be used for deploying satellites or conducting scientific experiments in the harsh environment of space, beyond the protection of Earth's atmosphere.

During a spacewalk, astronauts wear specialized spacesuits, known as Extravehicular Mobility Units (EMUs). These suits provide a self-contained environment, supplying oxygen, regulating temperature, protecting against micrometeoroids, and managing waste. They also include communication systems and tethers to keep the astronaut connected to the spacecraft.

Spacewalks are complex and demanding operations. Astronauts undergo extensive training to prepare for the physical and mental challenges, including simulated weightlessness and practicing intricate procedures. Safety is paramount, and spacewalks are carefully planned with backup procedures and safety tethers. The duration of spacewalks can vary, typically lasting several hours.