Why was the ISS Crew-11 mission evacuated early?

An astronaut on board the ISS experienced a medical emergency, leading NASA to initiate an early evacuation for safety.

Has NASA ever evacuated an astronaut for medical reasons before?

No, this is the first time NASA has had to bring an astronaut home from a mission due to a medical issue.

What happens to the other astronauts on the ISS?

The rest of the Crew-11 will return to Earth sooner than planned, while one astronaut will remain to ensure U.S. presence.

Home / Science / ISS Crew Evacuated After Astronaut Medical Emergency

ISS Crew Evacuated After Astronaut Medical Emergency

9 Jan

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Summary

An astronaut on the ISS experienced a medical emergency requiring immediate crew evacuation.
Crew-11's mission has been cut short, with their return being planned by NASA.
This is the first time NASA has had to bring an astronaut home for medical reasons.

ISS Crew Evacuated After Astronaut Medical Emergency

A medical emergency involving an astronaut on the International Space Station has necessitated an urgent evacuation of the Crew-11 mission. NASA announced that the crew will not complete their scheduled mission and are planning for their safe return sooner than anticipated. This decision follows the cancellation of a planned spacewalk due to the astronaut's condition.

The affected astronaut, whose identity has not been revealed, is reportedly not in immediate danger but is being brought home out of an abundance of caution. NASA confirmed that evacuation plans are a standard part of all ISS missions, with return vehicles kept ready.

This unprecedented situation means the ISS will maintain its American presence with astronaut Chris Williams remaining on board with the Soyuz crew. This event marks a significant first for NASA, as it has never before had to medically evacuate an astronaut from space.