Joshua Kutryk to Conduct First Spacewalk October 29
Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk will perform a spacewalk to install and deploy solar arrays at the International Space Station.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Space
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On October 29, 2026, Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk will conduct his first-ever spacewalk. Alongside NASA astronaut Anil Menon, he will work to install and deploy new solar panels at the International Space Station.
Why it matters
This mission marks a significant milestone as Kutryk becomes the fifth Canadian Space Agency astronaut to perform a spacewalk. His work on the station helps maintain and upgrade essential power systems for continued orbital research.
The operation relies on the Canadarm2 robotic arm, which will move rolled-up solar arrays from the Mobile Base to their installation points. CSA teams in Longueuil designed the complex sequence required for these robotic manoeuvres.
The players
Joshua Kutryk
He is an astronaut with the Canadian Space Agency who will be the fifth Canadian to complete a spacewalk.
Anil Menon
He is a NASA astronaut who will accompany Kutryk during the installation and deployment of the solar panels.
Jenni Gibbons
She is an astronaut acting as the capcom from the Johnson Space Center to support the mission operations.
Canadian Space Agency
This national organization manages the Canadian space program and designed the robotic sequences for the station.
The details
Kutryk and Menon will manage the installation of solar arrays while being supported by flight control teams. Jenni Gibbons will serve as the capcom for the mission from the Johnson Space Center.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: Joshua Kutryk conducts his first spacewalk.
October 30, 2026: Media event with Joshua Kutryk via space-to-Earth connection.
The Big Picture
This mission marks a continuation of the International Space Station solar array upgrade program. It represents a vital step in maintaining the orbital laboratory's energy capacity for future scientific endeavours.
Residents in Canada can watch a livestream of the spacewalk at the Montreal Science Centre. This event provides the public with a direct look at the robotic operations designed by national engineering teams.
The takeaway
This spacewalk underscores the complex international collaboration required to maintain hardware in low-Earth orbit. It serves as a reminder of the critical role robotics plays in sustaining human-tended space platforms.
What happens next
Media may participate in a live space-to-Earth connection with Joshua Kutryk on October 30, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest missions at Space.
More information
For more information on the mission, visit the Canadian Space Agency official website.
Live Poll
Do you believe the benefits of government-funded space exploration justify the financial costs?
