Crew-12’s Return Scheduled for October 7, 2026
RRI.CO.ID reported that NASA and SpaceX targeted the release of Crew-12 from the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. The mission, which will see the crew re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, is set to begin at 08:05 local time, pending weather conditions. The four astronauts will spend over a day orbiting Earth in the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft before landing off the coast of California around 11:34 local time on October 8.
Crew-12 Completes Preparations for Return Journey
The Crew-12 team includes NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. They have been stationed at the ISS since February, conducting research and operational tasks. Before departure, the crew completed final preparations, including packing belongings and testing pressurized suits for the return journey.
Transition to Crew-13
Crew-13, which arrived at the ISS on October 1, 2026, will assume responsibilities following Crew-12’s departure. The new crew consists of NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney, Canadian astronaut Josh Kutryk, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov. Their mission ensures continuous operations and research on the ISS.
NASA Will Broadcast the SpaceX Dragon Splashdown
NASA will broadcast the entire return process, from the Crew-12 departure to the Dragon spacecraft’s landing. This marks the conclusion of an eight-month mission, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between international space agencies.
Technical Aspects of the Return
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is designed to withstand re-entry and perform a controlled splashdown.
When Is Crew-12 Returning and Who Is Involved?
When is Crew-12 scheduled to return to Earth?
Crew-12 is set to return on October 7, 2026, with the spacecraft expected to land off California’s coast around 11:34 local time on October 8.
Who are the members of Crew-12?
The crew includes NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev.
What happens after Crew-12 leaves the ISS?
Crew-13, which arrived on October 1, 2026, will take over operations. The new team includes NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney, Canadian astronaut Josh Kutryk, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov.
Crew-12 Mission Reflects Extended Research Stays
Crew-12’s eight-month mission reflects the extended stays required for research.
Pro Tips
Space enthusiasts can watch NASA’s live coverage of the Crew-12 return via the agency’s official website or social media channels.
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