Spacewalks Leave Astronauts' Fingernails in Horrifying Condition
Astronauts who perform spacewalks often experience a disturbing side effect: their fingernails fall off. Known as onycholysis, this condition is caused by the pressurized gloves worn during extravehicular activities (EVAs). The gloves restrict movement and create pressure points, leading to pain, muscle fatigue, abrasions, and onycholysis. Despite efforts to design better gloves, the problem persists. Recent studies have found that glove design, sizing, and fit play a significant role in the occurrence of onycholysis. However, new spacesuits being developed for the Artemis program may offer a solution to this issue.