He suddenly couldn't speak in space. NASA astronaut says his medical scare remains a mystery
KSL.com • • science
Key Points:
- Astronaut Mike Fincke experienced a sudden medical episode at the International Space Station on January 7, which led to NASA's first-ever medical evacuation from space; doctors still do not know the cause of his illness.
- The episode lasted about 20 minutes, during which Fincke was unable to speak but felt no pain, and he recovered fully afterward without any recurring symptoms.
- Medical evaluations have ruled out a heart attack or choking, and NASA is investigating whether the incident could be related to Fincke's extended time in weightlessness, reviewing other astronauts' medical records for similar cases.
- The illness caused the cancellation of a planned spacewalk and an early return to Earth for Fincke and three crewmates, who were hospitalized immediately after landing.
- Despite the incident, Fincke remains optimistic about returning to space, and NASA emphasizes protecting astronauts' medical privacy during such events.
