The author develops the ideas with respect to the significance of the spacewalk for women by highlighting historical achievements and the legacy of women in the space program, particularly figures like Katherine Johnson and Mae Jemison, and discussing ongoing challenges and contributions of women in fields like astronomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The timing of the spacewalk by McClain and Koch is indeed significant for women as it represents a historical moment. The author develops the ideas by illustrating the historical achievements of women in the space program. This includes acknowledging Katherine Johnson's crucial contributions to orbital mechanics and the trajectory calculations for the moon landing, celebrating the barrier-breaking journey of Mae Jemison as the first Black woman in space, and addressing the past and current challenges faced by women in astronomy as discussed by Emily Rice and provided in the context of Annie Cannon's work for astronomy. Therefore, the author connects the upcoming spacewalk by McClain and Koch to a legacy of female contributions and progression in a field traditionally dominated by men, especially highlighting the momentous occasion taking place in a month dedicated to celebrating women's contributions.