Space

Power Up: Roll Out Solar Arrays Boost Space Station Power Supply

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 15/10/2026, 20:20:24 UTC.

Briefings

NASA deployed eight International Space Station Roll Out Solar Arrays (IROSAs) between 2021 and 2023, increasing power capacity by over 160kW. The arrays, designed by Redwire for Boeing, were installed via spacewalks using the Canadarm2 robotic arm. A 2017 technology demonstration confirmed their effectiveness, and the first two were loaded in a SpaceX Dragon mission in 2021. Eight total arrays were installed, with a potential ninth planned for 2023. The station's power system supports life support, research, and future deep space missions.

Key points

• Eight International Space Station Roll Out Solar Arrays (IROSAs) were installed between 2021 and 2023, increasing power capacity by over 160kW.
• The arrays were designed by Redwire for Boeing and installed via spacewalks using the Canadarm2 robotic arm.

Context and limitations

The evidence covers the deployment of eight IROSAs from 2021 to 2023, with a potential ninth planned for 2023. Specific installation dates for all eight arrays are not provided, and the exact operational impact of the ninth planned array remains unverified.

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