NASA has postponed an ISS spacewalk due to a medical issue involving a crew member; the situation is stable, and updates will follow.
HOUSTON: NASA has postponed a scheduled spacewalk on the International Space Station (ISS) after a crew member experienced a medical concern, the agency announced on Wednesday. While the exact nature of the issue remains undisclosed, officials confirmed that the astronaut’s condition is stable and that the delay was made out of caution.
The spacewalk, originally planned for Thursday, January 8, was to be carried out by members of the Crew‑11 mission, which includes astronauts from the United States, Japan, and Russia. NASA said the health concern does not pose an emergency but requires further observation before any extravehicular activity (EVA) can continue.
The agency added that it is assessing all options, including the rare possibility of bringing the crew back to Earth earlier than expected. The Crew‑11 team launched in August 2025 and was expected to remain on the ISS for a six-month mission. No further details have been provided about the crew member involved due to medical privacy protocols.
NASA stated, “Due to medical privacy, it is not appropriate for NASA to share more details about the crew member. NASA will share additional details, including a new date for the upcoming spacewalk, later.” Officials emphasised that astronaut health is a top priority and that all operations are being adjusted accordingly.
The ISS mission remains operational, with regular functions continuing aboard the station. The postponed EVA was part of planned maintenance and upgrades to the station’s systems. A rescheduled spacewalk date will be announced once crew health assessments are complete and mission safety is ensured.
