Famous Space Missions Part 6: Voskhod 2 and the first spacewalk.

On March 18, 1965, the Soviet space mission Voskhod 2 achieved a historic milestone by performing the first spacewalk, also known as an extravehicular activity (EVA). This groundbreaking mission marked a significant advancement in human space exploration and demonstrated the potential for activities outside the spacecraft.

Voskhod 2 was launched by the Soviet Union with a crew consisting of Commander Alexei Leonov and Pilot Cosmonaut Pavel Popovich. The mission was part of the Voskhod program, which aimed to further Soviet space exploration capabilities. Voskhod 2 was equipped with a number of scientific instruments and featured a specially designed airlock to facilitate the spacewalk.

(Launch of Voskhod-2)

The primary objective of the mission was to conduct the first EVA, and Alexei Leonov was selected for this historic task. Prior to the mission, Leonov had undergone rigorous training, including practicing spacewalks in a large underwater facility and in a specially designed suit. The spacewalk was carefully planned to assess the feasibility of working outside the spacecraft and to test the performance of the new spacesuit.

On the day of the mission, Voskhod 2 was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome and successfully entered orbit. After completing initial spacecraft systems checks and performing scientific experiments, the time came for the historic EVA. Alexei Leonov exited the spacecraft through the airlock, becoming the first human to float freely in space. His spacesuit was equipped with a visor and a tether to ensure his safety during the spacewalk.

Leonov’s spacewalk lasted approximately 12 minutes. During this time, he demonstrated the ability to move and work outside the spacecraft, including performing some manual tasks and taking photographs of the Earth. However, the mission was not without challenges. Leonov experienced difficulties with his suit, which expanded in the vacuum of space, making it hard for him to re-enter the spacecraft. Despite these challenges, he managed to return safely.

Leonov spacewalking outside Voskhod 2

(Wikipedia Contributors)

The Voskhod 2 mission was a significant achievement in the history of space exploration. It proved that astronauts could safely and effectively work outside their spacecraft, paving the way for future space missions that involved complex external operations. The successful completion of the first spacewalk demonstrated the feasibility of space construction and repair, crucial for future space missions and the establishment of space stations.

In conclusion, Voskhod 2’s historic spacewalk marked a new chapter in human space exploration. It showcased the bravery and ingenuity of the cosmonauts involved and set the stage for future advancements in space activities.