French astronaut Sophie Adeno became the first French woman to perform an extravehicular activity (EVA) at the International Space Station (ISS) [1, 2].
The mission marks a historic milestone for France's space program, ending a 25-year gap since a French woman last traveled to space [2].
Accompanied by U.S. astronaut Anil Menon, Adeno exited the station on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2026 [1, 2]. The mission began at 12:35 GMT [1]. The primary objective was to replace a malfunctioning communications antenna that facilitates contact between the space station and Earth [1, 2].
NASA said the mission was expected to last six and a half hours [1]. The replacement of the hardware is intended to improve overall communication capabilities for the crew and ground control [2].
During the preparations for the mission, Adeno emphasized the importance of collective aspiration. "Let us make our dreams big together," Adeno said [2].
The EVA required precise coordination between the two astronauts to ensure the faulty antenna was removed and the new unit was properly installed. Such missions carry significant risk, as astronauts are exposed to the vacuum of space and rely entirely on their suits for life support [1].
While some reports noted a SpaceX vehicle launch earlier that week at 10:15 GMT, the specific spacewalk mission involving Adeno and Menon was recorded as starting at 12:35 GMT [1, 2].
“Sophie Adeno became the first French woman to perform an extravehicular activity at the International Space Station.”
This mission restores critical infrastructure for the ISS while signaling a resurgence in French female participation in human spaceflight. By successfully replacing the communications antenna, the crew ensures the continued stability of data transmission between the station and Earth, which is vital for both scientific research and crew safety.
