Why was the NASA spacewalk postponed?

The spacewalk was postponed due to a medical concern with one of the crew members.

What are NASA's policies on astronaut medical privacy?

NASA generally does not share details about individual astronaut medical issues, citing privacy concerns.

Has NASA had other astronaut medical issues recently?

Yes, a SpaceX Crew-8 astronaut experienced a medical issue upon returning from the space station in October 2024.

Home / Science / NASA Abruptly Delays Spacewalk Due to Crew Concern

NASA Abruptly Delays Spacewalk Due to Crew Concern

8 Jan

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Summary

A scheduled Thursday spacewalk was postponed due to a crew member's medical concern.
NASA cited medical privacy and did not disclose details about the astronaut.
This follows a recent incident where a SpaceX Crew-8 astronaut experienced a medical issue.

NASA Abruptly Delays Spacewalk Due to Crew Concern

NASA announced on Wednesday the postponement of a spacewalk scheduled for Thursday, citing a medical concern with one of the involved astronauts. The space agency has chosen not to disclose specific details regarding the astronaut's condition, emphasizing medical privacy while assuring that the situation is stable.

This unscheduled delay impacts the ongoing preparations for the installation of a new solar array on the International Space Station. Astronauts Mike Fincke and Zena Cardman were slated to perform the spacewalk, which would have been a significant milestone for Cardman, marking her first excursion outside the station.

NASA's practice of maintaining astronaut medical privacy is well-established, with information often revealed through broader scientific studies rather than individual disclosures. This situation also recalls a recent medical event involving a SpaceX Crew-8 astronaut upon their return to Earth in October 2024.