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NASA evaluates early departure for ISS team after medical concern
NASA is assessing whether to bring home four astronauts from the International Space Station ahead of schedule after one crew member developed a medical issue. The agency canceled a planned spacewalk and is reviewing safety options.
Medical situation prompts spacewalk cancellation
On Wednesday, NASA abruptly called off a scheduled spacewalk set for Thursday, citing an undisclosed medical issue involving one of the four Crew-11 astronauts. The agency confirmed the crew member's condition is stable but declined to provide further details, citing medical privacy.
"The agency is monitoring a medical concern with a crew member that arose Wednesday afternoon aboard the orbital complex."
NASA statement
Mission managers weigh early return options
NASA officials are now determining whether the affected astronaut can remain in orbit or if the entire Crew-11 team should return to Earth earlier than planned. The four-person crew-NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan's Kimiya Yui (JAXA), and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov-launched in August 2025 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon for a six-month mission.
Their original return date was slated for late February 2026, following the arrival of their replacements. However, mission managers are prioritizing safety and evaluating all scenarios, including an early departure.
"Safely conducting our missions is our highest priority, and we are actively evaluating all options, including the possibility of an earlier end to Crew 11's mission."
NASA spokeswoman
Potential impact on ISS operations
If Crew-11 departs early, three astronauts-NASA's Chris Williams and Russian cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikayev-would remain aboard the ISS. Space scientist Dr. Simeon Barber of the Open University noted that an early return would require the remaining crew to scale back experimental work and focus on essential maintenance.
"The space station is a big, complex feat of engineering, designed to be operated by a certain minimum level of crew. If Crew-11 were to return early, the remaining crew would dial back on experimental work and prioritize housekeeping to keep the station healthy."
Dr. Simeon Barber, Open University
Barber added that NASA would likely bring the entire Crew-11 team home together, as splitting the group could create logistical and safety challenges.
Medical support aboard the ISS
The ISS is equipped with basic medical supplies, diagnostic tools, and secure communication systems, allowing Earth-based doctors to consult with astronauts in real time. This setup enables remote assessments and treatment guidance, similar to a telehealth appointment with a physician.
