What medical emergency led to the ISS evacuation?

While not fully disclosed, a medical emergency on January 7 required the use of a portable ultrasound, leading to an early return of the ISS crew.

How is ultrasound used on the International Space Station?

On the ISS, ultrasound is primarily used to monitor astronauts' cardiac health and eye conditions affected by microgravity.

Was the ISS crew's evacuation dangerous?

NASA stated the astronaut was stable, but the situation presented lingering risks, prompting the decision for an early return.

Home / Science / ISS Ultrasound Hinted at Astronaut Medical Emergency

ISS Ultrasound Hinted at Astronaut Medical Emergency

23 Jan

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Summary

Portable ultrasound used during a January 7 medical emergency on the ISS.
Ultrasound scans monitor cardiac and eye health in microgravity.
This was NASA's first medical evacuation in 65 years.

ISS Ultrasound Hinted at Astronaut Medical Emergency

Astronauts returning from the International Space Station have offered insight into a medical emergency that triggered a rare evacuation. Mike Fincke, a pilot on the mission, indicated that a portable ultrasound machine was instrumental in managing the situation on January 7.

This technology is vital for monitoring astronauts' cardiac systems and eye health in the unique environment of space. Microgravity can cause fluid to shift, increasing risks like blood clots and contributing to spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome.

The emergency led to NASA's first medical evacuation in 65 years and the first-ever evacuation of the ISS. A planned spacewalk was cancelled on January 8, with the crew's return accelerated and set for January 10.