This shift in working culture is key as women in STEM industries push to assert their contributions and make their voices heard, paving the way to a future generation of female scientists. This, in turn, will impact the direction and outcome of key fields of research.

It’s also important on a logistical level: since the mishap earlier this year, NASA has unveiled a new “moon suit” prototype that will adapt to provide a customised fit no matter what the wearer’s shape or size.

Most of all, though, the first female spacewalk is significant because of the way it secures the role of female astronauts in history. Too often, women have been rendered invisible from key events and narratives of the past, across all genres. This development today represents one small step to redressing the balance – and a giant leap forward for womankind.

Images: NASA

Finally, an all-female spacewalk is under way – this is why it matters