NASA has postponed a planned spacewalk scheduled for January 8th, citing a medical concern affecting an unnamed astronaut. The spacewalk, which was set to take place at approximately 8:00 a.m. EST, would have been the first for Zena Cardman and the tenth for Mike Fincke, who would have tied the record for most extravehicular activities (EVAs) by a NASA astronaut. This delay marks a significant setback for the crew's mission, as the spacewalk was crucial for preparing the International Space Station's power channels for the installation of a new International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array (iROSA). The iROSA will provide additional power for the orbital laboratory, including critical support for its safe and controlled deorbit. The postponement is a rare occurrence, as the spacewalk was designed to be a significant milestone in the station's history. NASA has also announced plans for another spacewalk this month, scheduled for January 15th, involving two unnamed astronauts. This will be the 278th and 279th EVA in the space station's long history, and the first of 2026. The space agency is taking a cautious approach, ensuring the safety of its crew and the success of future missions.
