Why is NASA bringing Crew-11 home early from the ISS?

One crew member experienced an undisclosed medical issue, prompting NASA to return the entire Crew-11 for necessary medical care.

Has the ISS ever had a medical evacuation before?

No, the early return of Crew-11 is the first medical evacuation in the 25-year history of the International Space Station.

What will happen to the Crew-12 launch?

NASA is evaluating earlier launch opportunities for the Crew-12 mission in light of the Crew-11 situation.

Home / Science / ISS Mission Cut Short for First Time Over Health Crisis

ISS Mission Cut Short for First Time Over Health Crisis

9 Jan

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Summary

Crew-11 astronauts returning early due to an undisclosed medical concern.
This marks the first medical evacuation in the ISS's 25-year history.
A planned spacewalk was postponed due to the developing situation.

ISS Mission Cut Short for First Time Over Health Crisis

NASA is accelerating the return of the four-person Crew-11 from the International Space Station due to an undisclosed medical concern affecting one crew member. This marks a significant and rare event, being the first medical evacuation in the ISS's 25-year operational history.

The crew member's condition, which began on January 7, 2026, necessitated the early departure. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated the decision was made because the necessary diagnostic and treatment capabilities are not available on the orbiting outpost. The SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft will bring all four astronauts home.

While the medical issue caused the early return, it was confirmed to be unrelated to spacewalk preparations. A spacewalk by Fincke and Cardman, intended for power upgrades, was postponed. NASA is evaluating earlier launch opportunities for the subsequent Crew-12 mission.