The four astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are embarking on an unprecedented journey back to Earth, roughly a month ahead of their anticipated schedule. This sudden change is attributed to a medical emergency involving one of the crew members. NASA's Michael Fincke and Zena Cardman, along with Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, are scheduled to splash down off the California coast during the early morning hours of Jan. 15.
"Given the privacy associated with medical matters, it is not appropriate for NASA to disclose further details about the crew member," the agency stated in a Jan. 13 press release, noting that the astronaut's condition is "stable."
Fincke shared on social media on Jan. 11 that this decision was made deliberately to facilitate proper medical evaluations on Earth, where the full range of diagnostic capabilities exists. "It's the right call, even if it's a bit bittersweet," he said.
He continued, "It has been a privilege to serve aboard the International Space Station—an extraordinary orbiting laboratory and a symbol of what nations can achieve together. Living and working here with our international partners has been both humbling and deeply rewarding."
NASA astronaut Christopher Williams will remain on the ISS alongside Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergey Mikaev of Russia during the medical evacuation. "We're leaving the ISS in great hands," Fincke noted. "The three crewmates who arrived in November will continue the mission, and they'll be joined by Crew-12 in just a few weeks."
He added, "We're grateful for the teamwork, proud of the mission, and looking forward to coming home soon—back to our loved ones and to resolving any medical questions with the best care available."
This will be the first-ever medical evacuation in the 25-year history of the ISS, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and highlighting the importance of collaboration between nations in addressing challenges in space.
