SPACEWALKS Meaning and
Definition
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A spacewalk, also known as an extravehicular activity (EVA), is a specialized activity in which an astronaut leaves their spacecraft to perform tasks or experiments in the vacuum of outer space. This unique and complex operation requires astronauts to venture outside their spaceship while tethered to it, relying on their spacesuit and various safety devices to ensure their survival.
During a spacewalk, astronauts have the opportunity to repair, maintain, or assemble spacecraft and equipment, investigate scientific phenomena, install new instruments or experiment platforms, and conduct tests or observations in the space environment. These tasks can range from routine maintenance and repairs to complex and crucial operations that directly contribute to the success of space missions.
Spacewalks are meticulously planned and executed, as they involve a multitude of risks and challenges. Astronauts must contend with extreme temperatures, radiation exposure, micrometeoroids, and the loss of gravity, which can affect their mobility and sense of orientation. They rely on their spacesuits, which provide life support systems such as oxygen supply, temperature regulation, communication, and protection against the harsh space environment.
Throughout history, spacewalks have played a pivotal role in advancing space exploration and our understanding of outer space. They have allowed scientists and engineers to overcome obstacles, develop new technologies, and push the boundaries of human capability. These extravehicular activities have become an essential component of space missions, enabling humans to interact with and explore the vast expanse beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Etymology of SPACEWALKS
The word "spacewalks" is a compound word consisting of the words "space" and "walks".
The term "space" derives from the Latin word "spatium", which meant "room" or "distance". In the late 17th century, the term "space" began to be used specifically to refer to the limitless expanse beyond the Earth's atmosphere.
The word "walk" dates back to Old English, where it was spelled as "wealcan" and meant "to move about on foot". Over time, it transformed to "walken" and eventually became "walk" in modern English.
When the concept of humans moving about outside their spacecraft in the vacuum of space emerged, the term "spacewalk" came into use. This term was first coined in the 1960s during the early years of manned space exploration.
