Two NASA astronauts float outside space station for 6.5 hours

Imagine working in space with nothing around you but darkness and stars. Two NASA astronauts did exactly that recently. They floated outside the International Space Station for 6.5 hours.

Astronaut Anil Menon and astronaut Jessica Meir had an important job. They needed to install special hardware outside the station. This hardware is like a hook. Future solar panels will attach to it.

Why do we need more solar panels? The station needs a lot of power. Solar panels use sunlight to make electricity. New panels will give the station more energy. The station can then do more science work.

Working in space is very dangerous. Astronauts wear thick spacesuits to stay safe. The suits protect them from the cold. Space is extremely cold. The suits also give them air to breathe. Outside the station, there is no air.

Before they went outside, the astronauts trained for a long time. Training happens in a big swimming pool on Earth. The pool is designed to feel like space. Divers help the astronauts practice their work. This preparation is very important.

The spacewalk was successful. The hardware is now in place. Soon, the new solar panels will arrive. They will be installed by future astronauts. These panels will help the International Space Station stay strong and continue its important science for many years.

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to float in space with the whole Earth below you?

Inspired by reporting from BBC News.