Why are spacewalks so difficult to do if things do not weigh much?

Answer 1

Spacewalks, or EVA's, are not as easy as they looks to us. Here are some of the problems.

* disorientation

* Fear of falling, even though you know intellectually that it's not possible.

* instability when trying to perform a task - your legs can float if not tethered.

* equipment does not stay where you want it when you want it, and there is nothing to confine it once it starts moving off.

* more exertion is needed to perform tasks and movements. The spacesuit and gloves are restrictive, even though much money goes into reducing this problem. The pressurization of the suit makes movements awkward.

*increased mental effort required as each movement has to be thought about, even simple movements that are done without thinking on Earth.

* visor fogging

* knowledge of the very real dangers associated with being out in the open in space. Should an astronaut be hit by even a tiny particle of space rock or junk, they could die due to depressurization of their suit. Becoming separated from the spacecraft is another possibility, although many precautions are taken against this.