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Alexei Leonov, first space walk, 1965
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Alexei Leonov, first space walk, 1965
First space walk. Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov (born 1934), outside the Voskhod 2 spacecraft in a spacesuit on 18 March 1965, while orbiting the Earth (in the background). This was the worlds first extravehicular activity (EVA), or space walk. Voskhod 2 had launched earlier that day, and Leonov exited the spacecraft at 08:30 UTC. He remained outside for 10 minutes, before trying to re-enter. Because his suit had ballooned while outside, he had to let some of his air out before he could successfully re-enter. Cameras mounted on the airlock were meant to record the space walk, but most had to be abandoned due to the problems with Leonovs spacesuit. The CCCP on Leonovs helmet refers to the USSR
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Media ID 6427169
© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1960s 1965 Astronaut Astronaut Photography Cccp Cosmonaut Cyrillic Earth Orbit Hero Of The Soviet Union Orbiting Russian Space Flight Space Race Space Suit
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This print captures a monumental moment in human history - the first space walk. Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov, born in 1934, fearlessly ventured outside the Voskhod 2 spacecraft on March 18,1965, while orbiting our beloved Earth. This extraordinary feat marked the world's inaugural extravehicular activity (EVA), forever etching Leonov's name in the annals of space exploration. As this awe-inspiring image reveals, Leonov donned his spacesuit and emerged into the vastness of space at precisely 08:30 UTC. However, an unexpected challenge arose when his suit unexpectedly ballooned due to lack of atmospheric pressure. Undeterred by adversity, he skillfully released some air before successfully re-entering the spacecraft. The cameras mounted on the airlock were intended to document this historic event; however, most had to be abandoned due to complications with Leonov's spacesuit. Nevertheless, this photograph serves as a testament to human resilience and determination amidst uncharted territories. Leonov's helmet proudly bears CCCP - an abbreviation for USSR - symbolizing his affiliation with one of humanity's greatest technological achievements during that era. His courageous act paved the way for future astronauts and cosmonauts alike. In this remarkable snapshot from Science Photo Library, we witness not only a man floating above our planet but also glimpse into a pivotal chapter in both Russian and global history – where dreams met reality among stars millions of miles away from home.
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