What Happened
Astronaut Mike Fincke, 58, has publicly identified himself as the crew member who experienced a medical issue aboard the International Space Station (ISS) last month, prompting NASA’s first-ever medical evacuation. In a statement released by NASA, Fincke revealed that on January 7, he required immediate medical attention from his fellow astronauts during the SpaceX Crew-11 mission.
Why It Matters
This unprecedented event marks a significant moment in NASA’s 65-year history of human spaceflight. The decision to evacuate Fincke and his three crewmates was made to facilitate advanced medical diagnostics and treatment not available in space. Although the situation was described as stable, it necessitated the early termination of their mission, leaving only three crew members aboard the ISS and leading to the cancellation of planned spacewalks.
What’s Next
Following their return to Earth on January 15, all four astronauts were taken to a hospital in San Diego for evaluation. Fincke has since reported that he is doing well and is undergoing post-flight reconditioning. NASA is expected to resume normal operations aboard the ISS as new crew members are launched to replace the evacuated team.
