Spacewalked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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spacewalked
[ˈspeɪsˌwɔkt ]
Definition
space exploration
Spacewalked is the past tense of spacewalk, which refers to the act of astronauts leaving the confines of their spacecraft to conduct activities in outer space. This extraordinary endeavor allows astronauts to perform repairs, conduct experiments, and explore the surface of a space station or spacecraft. Spacewalking can be a critical aspect of missions intended for scientific research or maintenance. Astronauts undergo extensive training to prepare for these activities, as they must cope with the lack of atmosphere and dangerous conditions outside their spacecraft.
Synonyms
EVA, extravehicular activity, outdoor space exploration.
Examples of usage
- The astronauts spacewalked to install new equipment.
- He had spacewalked multiple times during his missions.
- They spacewalked to make critical repairs on the station.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The first successful spacewalk was conducted by Russian cosmonaut Alexei Leonov on March 18, 1965, lasting about 12 minutes.
- NASA's program started permitting spacewalks in 1966, with astronaut Edward White performing the first American spacewalk during the Gemini 4 mission.
- Spacewalks, known as Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), are crucial for spacecraft repairs and scientific experiments outside Earth's atmosphere.
Science
- During a spacewalk, astronauts are exposed to extreme temperatures, radiation, and microgravity, requiring them to wear specially designed suits.
- The average spacewalk lasts around six to seven hours, where astronauts perform various tasks such as installing equipment or conducting experiments.
- Every year, astronauts conduct several spacewalks to maintain the International Space Station, which has been continuously inhabited since 2000.
Pop Culture
- Spacewalks have been depicted in movies like 'Gravity' and 'Interstellar', showcasing the awe and dangers of working in space.
- The sight of astronauts floating outside their spacecraft has become an iconic symbol of human exploration beyond Earth.
- Many documentaries and space-themed shows highlight the excitement and challenges of spacewalks, engaging the public's fascination with space.
Psychology
- Astronauts often undergo psychological training to prepare for the stress and isolation encountered during spacewalks.
- The experience of seeing Earth from space during a spacewalk can lead to profound emotional responses, often termed the 'Overview Effect'.
- During spacewalks, astronauts must remain focused under potentially stressful conditions, enhancing their problem-solving skills and teamwork.
Origin of 'spacewalked'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'space' referring to outer space and 'walked' to indicate moving on foot, creating a clear image of walking in space.
- First used in the 1960s, it became popular after the first human spacewalks were accomplished.
- Language around space has evolved rapidly as technology and exploration efforts grew throughout the 20th century.
The term 'spacewalk' originated in the early days of space exploration and became more widespread following the first successful extravehicular activity (EVA) undertaken by Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov in 1965. The concept captures the unique experience of leaving a spacecraft while in the vacuum of space, and combines 'space', referencing the extraterrestrial environment beyond Earth's atmosphere, with 'walk', indicating movement similar to walking. Over the years, as space missions became more common and complex, the term has evolved along with technology and understanding of human capabilities in outer space. It is now associated with various tasks including scientific experimentation and maintenance, making it a vital aspect of contemporary astronaut training and mission planning.