CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The International Space Station is once again operating at full capacity following the arrival of four new astronauts on Saturday, replacing a crew that returned to Earth early due to a medical issue.
SpaceX delivered the astronauts – representing the U.S., France, and Russia – just one day after launching them from Cape Canaveral.
The unexpected return of four astronauts last month marked NASA’s first medical evacuation in 65 years of human spaceflight. An astronaut experienced a serious health issue, prompting a hasty return to Earth. This left the station with only three crew members – one American and two Russians – leading to a temporary suspension of spacewalks and a reduction in research activities.
The newly arrived crew consists of NASA’s Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, France’s Sophie Adenot, and Russia’s Andrei Fedyaev. Meir, a marine biologist, and Fedyaev, a former military pilot, both have prior experience aboard the International Space Station. During a previous visit in 2019, Meir participated in the first all-female spacewalk.
Adenot, a military helicopter pilot, is the second French woman to travel to space. Hathaway is a captain in the U.S. Navy.
Upon docking 277 miles (446 kilometers) above Earth, Adenot greeted the team with a cheerful “Bonjour!” Meir added, “Grateful to be on board, and we’re ready to secure to work.”
NASA has not disclosed the identity of the astronaut who became ill on January 7, nor has the agency detailed the nature of the medical issue, citing medical privacy. The affected astronaut and their three crewmates spent their first night back on Earth at a hospital before returning to Houston.
The space agency confirmed that preflight medical checks for the replacement crew were not altered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the early return of the previous crew?
One of four astronauts launched by SpaceX last summer suffered what officials described as a serious health issue, prompting their hasty return to Earth.
How long will the new crew remain on the International Space Station?
The new crew will be aboard the International Space Station for eight to nine months.
Who is part of the newly arrived crew?
The new crew consists of NASA’s Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, France’s Sophie Adenot, and Russia’s Andrei Fedyaev.
As the International Space Station returns to full strength, what challenges and opportunities do you anticipate for the crew during their extended stay in orbit?
