NASA's Unexplained Files Season 2 Episode 4 Spacewalk of Doom

NASA's Unexplained Files season 2 episode 4 is titled "Spacewalk of Doom." This episode focuses on the dangerous moments that astronauts have experienced while performing spacewalks. It provides insight into the potential risks that come with working in outer space and the measures that astronauts must take to ensure their safety.

The episode features real-life footage of astronauts carrying out spacewalks and the setbacks that they have encountered along the way. The show also features interviews with NASA engineers and scientists who provide their expert opinions on the events that have taken place. Viewers will be able to see how NASA responds to emergencies and how they handle technical malfunctions.

"Spacewalk of Doom" looks at two specific spacewalks that went wrong. The first was during the Gemini 4 mission in 1965, when astronaut Edward White became the first American to perform a spacewalk. However, during his spacewalk, his suit's umbilical cord became tangled, and it took several minutes for ground control to untangle it. This incident served as a warning to future spacewalks concerning the risks that come with conducting operations outside the spacecraft.

The second spacewalk was carried out during the STS-37 mission in 1991, when astronauts Jerry L. Ross and Jay Apt were tasked with repairing the Gamma Ray Observatory. While Ross and Apt were conducting their spacewalk, one of the tools they were using accidentally drifted away from them. This was a serious issue, as the tool could potentially collide with the spacecraft and cause catastrophic damage to the mission. NASA engineers quickly sprang into action to avert the danger and successfully retrieved the tool before it could cause any harm.

Throughout the episode, viewers will see how NASA has developed specialized equipment to increase astronaut safety while performing spacewalks. For example, the show talks at length about the SAFER (Simplified Aid For EVA Rescue) system which was developed in the early 2000s. SAFER is a backpack-like device that astronauts can wear while performing spacewalks. It contains small thrusters that enable astronauts to regain control of their movements in the event that they become untethered from their equipment.

Overall, "Spacewalk of Doom" is an enthralling episode that delves into some of the scariest moments that astronauts have experienced while performing spacewalks. The episode highlights the danger that comes with conducting operations outside the spacecraft and emphasizes just how important astronaut safety is to the success of a mission. Viewers will be left with a new found appreciation for the brave men and women who risk their lives to push the boundaries of science in outer space.